Tag Archives: psychology of religion

Buddha, Abraham, Jesus, Muhammed – Larger-than-life historic figures or largely legends? Part 2

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The origins and adaptations of every sect in human history are textbook examples of Darwinian theory in action. (See Part 1 of this series here.) We all know that gods don’t actually have to exist for religions to spring up … Continue reading

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Treat True Believers with Humanity, not Contempt

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Even assuming credulity is a weakness, decent people don’t jeer at others who are functioning poorly in some part of life. With religious belief holding such an outsized influence on our society, it is reasonable that atheists, humanists and other … Continue reading

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People Love Miracle Stories. Why Not Play Along?

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So why not live with the magic? Be a kid again and believe in the fantastical. Life is more fun with a little smoke and mirrors.” ― L.H. Cosway, Six of Hearts The Conclusion of a 7-Part Series – Why … Continue reading

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Seven Kinds of Magical Thinking That Even Skeptics Can’t Escape

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Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy.—Walt Disney Part 5 of a 7-Part Series – Why People Believe in Miracles and Other Kinds of Magic (Part 4 here) Magic takes us outside of reality, … Continue reading

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The Human Mind is Wired for Magical Thinking

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 “Nothing is so alien to the human mind as the idea of randomness.” —John Cohen Part 4 of a 7-Part Series – Why People Believe in Miracles and Other Kinds of Magic (Read Part 3 here.) Are you human? Then … Continue reading

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