COGS 311 - Seminar in Cognitive Science

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

Topic for 2024/25b: The Cognitive Science of Religion. Religion has played a critical role in human experience throughout recorded history. In this class, we approach this topic through the lens of cognitive science, asking whether and how we might explain the origins, nature, and power of religious ideas and religious experience. We draw on theories and methods from evolutionary biology, anthropology, the behavioral sciences, religious studies, neuroscience, and philosophy, as well as the cognitive science synthesis of these approaches. Topics include ritual, mystical experience, spirituality, supernatural beliefs, secular religions, and more. Stephen Flusberg.

Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in Cognitive Science and permission of the instructor.

May be repeated for credit if the topic has changed.

One 3-hour period.

Course Format: CLS