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Author: Jesse Bering

Narrator: Ryan

Format: MP3

IBSN: 9780393080414

Language: English

Publish Date: 08/09/2011

Audiobook length: 31 min

Contents

Chapter 1The Evolutionary Roots of Belief in Supernatural Agents
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Chapter 2The Role of Theory of Mind in Religious Beliefs
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Chapter 3The Social Functions of Religious Beliefs in Human Societies
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Chapter 4Cognitive Illusions and the Perception of Supernatural Events
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Chapter 5The Psychological Comfort and Adaptive Value of Belief
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Chapter 6The Conflict Between Science and Religion in Modern Society
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Chapter 7Understanding Belief: Insights and Implications for the Future
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Why listen to The Belief Instinct

Listening to the summary audiobook of "The Belief Instinct" by Jesse Bering is essential for anyone interested in understanding the psychological and evolutionary roots of human belief in the supernatural. Bering delves into the cognitive mechanisms that drive our need for meaning and connection beyond the material world, providing insights into how these instincts shaped our cultures and societies. The concise format allows you to grasp complex ideas quickly, making it a valuable resource for both personal reflection and academic exploration, especially for those curious about the intersection of psychology, philosophy, and religion.

Author : Jesse Bering

Jesse Bering is a renowned psychologist, writer, and academic whose work delves into the intersection of evolutionary psychology, religion, and human behavior. With a Ph.D. in developmental psychology from Florida Atlantic University, Bering has held prestigious academic positions, including directing the Institute of Cognition and Culture at Queen's University Belfast. A prolific author and engaging public speaker, Bering has contributed extensively to both scholarly literature and popular media, with his writing appearing in esteemed outlets such as Scientific American, Slate, and The Guardian. His penchant for making complex scientific concepts accessible and intriguing to a broad audience has cemented his reputation as a leading voice in the field of human psychology. Bering's work, especially his exploration of the human belief instinct, continues to provoke thought and inspire dialogue about the profound ways our evolutionary past shapes our modern existence.

Key Insights from The Belief Instinct

  • Bering argues that belief in a higher power is a natural consequence of human cognition, stemming from our evolved tendency to ascribe intention to the world around us. This instinctual drive helps us cope with mortality and uncertainty, prompting us to seek meaning beyond the physical realm.
  • The book delves into the psychological underpinnings of why humans are inclined to hold supernatural beliefs, linking them to evolutionary survival strategies. By examining human development and cognitive patterns, Bering illustrates how our brains are wired to anthropomorphize and attribute agency to non-human entities.
  • Bering also challenges the notion that belief in God is purely a cultural construct, suggesting that it emerges from deeply rooted psychological mechanisms. These mechanisms not only facilitate social bonding but also provide individuals with comfort in the face of life's existential challenges.
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