Published Jul 17, 2018

Creating God

Explore the evolutionary role of religion with psychologist Azim Shariff as he delves into how sacred values and rituals have historically united societies, fostered cooperation, and even motivated conflict, while examining the rise of secular alternatives in modern times.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Episode Highlights

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Dexa/Shankar Vedantam

Creating God

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Costly Signals in Religion

Faith and Analysis

Rituals and Synchrony

Religion and Generosity

Modern Faiths Emerge

Religion and Violence

Religion and Evolution

Religion and Conflict

Religion and Relationships

Faith and Cooperation

Costly Signals

Divine Deterrents

Religion and Cooperation

Evolution of Religion

Episode Highlights

Religion and Violence

Religious Functions

Evolutionary Perspective

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Creating God

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Religion and ViolenceThe discussion shifts to the role of religion in fostering conflict and enhancing group cohesion. Azim Shariff provides an evolutionary perspective, explaining how religion can unite people through sacred values, making them more willing to fight and die for their beliefs.

Religion and Violence

Religious Functions

Evolutionary PerspectiveAzim Shariff explores the evolution of religious beliefs and practices as cultural phenomena that adapt to societal needs. He examines how costly rituals and the concept of punitive deities serve as mechanisms for social cohesion and moral control.

Evolutionary Perspective

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