In this RfRx session Andy Thomson will deliver a presentation on the basic mechanisms the mind uses to produce and accept religious beliefs. He will explore multiple topics such as human evolution, the neurobiology of ritual or how certain cognitive mechanisms generate religion.

Andy Thomson is a psychiatrist at University of Virginia Student Health Services. The 9.11 attacks triggered an interest in suicide terrorism, which led to the discovery of an unappreciated world of research into how and why human minds generate religious beliefs. Andy has written “Why We Believe In God(s): A Concise Guide to the Science of Faith” which brings that world to anyone interested.   Hosted by Gayle Jordan, RfR Executive Director, and Medelin Nolasco, RfR Volunteer & RfRx Social Host.  Recorded on March 22, 2021.

For RfRx comments, inquiries & topical questions, email us at [email protected].

Any time you are struggling with religious doubts or fears you can connect with a trained RfR Helpline agent 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To chat online go to http://www.recoveringfromreligion.org.

To talk over the phone, dial:

(844) 368-2848 in the US & Canada

If you are in need of professional help, we can offer the Secular Therapy Project to provide options to connect with a professional therapist. All therapists have been thoroughly vetted by our organization and offer only evidence-based and non-religious treatment. Connect with them at http://www.seculartherapy.org.

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