Published May 6, 2019

Creating God

Shankar Vedantam delves into Azim Shariff's exploration of religion as an evolutionary adaptation, highlighting its role in fostering societal trust and cooperation while also examining the dual nature of religious beliefs in creating both conflict and cohesion. The episode provides insights into how sacred values influence modern societies beyond religious contexts.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Episode Highlights

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Dexa/Shankar Vedantam

Creating God

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Costly Signals

Rituals and Synchrony

God and Morality

Religion and Conflict

Faith and Analysis

Faith and Cooperation

Evolution of Belief

Religion and Cooperation

Modern Faiths Emerge

Religion and Violence

Religion and Evolution

Religion and Relationships

Evolution of Religion

Religion and Generosity

Episode Highlights

Religious Innovation

Religious Conflict

Religion and Cooperation

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Creating God

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Religious InnovationAzim Shariff examines religion through the lens of evolutionary theory, suggesting it functions as a cultural adaptation that has helped societies thrive. He discusses how religious practices and beliefs have evolved to meet social needs, fostering trust and cooperation.

Religious Innovation

Religious ConflictThe discussion explores how religious beliefs can lead to both conflict and cohesion, highlighting the role of sacred values in motivating extreme behaviors. Azim Shariff examines how these values extend beyond religion, influencing modern societies and their institutions.

Religious Conflict

Religion and CooperationAzim Shariff examines religion through a Darwinian lens, suggesting it evolved as a social innovation to enhance cooperation and trust. He highlights the role of supernatural punishment in encouraging prosocial behavior and the impact of religious beliefs on societal trust.

Religion and Cooperation

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