Prof. Daniel Wolne explains historical theories of religion with special focus on Sigmund Freud's speculation that religious belief arises from a projection of a father figure onto the universe. We then dive into contemporary theories arising from the cognitive science of religion: theory of mind, hyperactive agency detection devices, and social function theories.

Check out video of our discussion on YouTube.

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EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00:00 Introduction

00:03:51 Explanation vs. theory of religion

00:07:26 Methodological naturalism

00:16:48 What is "religion"?

00:27:44 Sigmund Freud - Is religion just projection of a father figure?

00:39:42 What about non-theistic religions?

00:42:09 Is religion the response to fear of death?

00:45:22 Cognitive science of religion

00:50:52 Hyperactive Agency Detection Device (HADD)

01:06:06 What is religion's social function?

01:11:56 Does cognitive science undermine religious belief?

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