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Why Gods Persist: A Scientific Approach to Religion (1999)

by Robert A. Hinde

Other authors: See the other authors section.

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542482,197 (3.83)5
What is it about religion that appeals to people? Why do religions and religious beliefs persist in the face of increasing secularisation, harsh criticism and even political persecution? Robert Hinde argues that it is not enough simply to criticize religion, we must understand it - not only how it causes so much conflict, but also how it brings comfort to many. Hinde, a distinguished scientist, draws on a wide range of psychological, developmental and evolutionary research to explore this fascinating question. This second edition of Why Gods Persist is designed for everyone interested in the subject, either as a student of psychology and anthropology of religion or as a follower of the current controversies over the value of religious belief.… (more)
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A good overall look at humanity's need for religion that is well-organized into chapters with logical headings and a summary. He incorporates what could be a strictly Church of England worldview into one that includes Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and even different sects of American Evangelism. And it is good to sometimes wonder what is it within humanity's journey that has created Diety as a necessary part of our lives. He cites various studies over the decades (including his own, which may not be entirely within the parameters of good science?) to make his conclusions.

While I read this book to gain an insight into the subject matter, I think it is geared more towards a classroom setting where discussion could happen and extended research could prove or argue or disprove points. Still, it was readable and well-organized. ( )
  threadnsong | Jan 1, 2020 |
Classic Scientism - filled with unverified and unexamined assumptions rooted in a monotheistic-dualistic world view.
(handwritten on title page)
  ibonewits | Oct 29, 2016 |
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Author nameRoleType of authorWork?Status
Hinde, Robert A.primary authorall editionsconfirmed
Broughton, MattCover designersecondary authorsome editionsconfirmed
Jenkins, RichardCover Photographsecondary authorsome editionsconfirmed
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What is it about religion that appeals to people? Why do religions and religious beliefs persist in the face of increasing secularisation, harsh criticism and even political persecution? Robert Hinde argues that it is not enough simply to criticize religion, we must understand it - not only how it causes so much conflict, but also how it brings comfort to many. Hinde, a distinguished scientist, draws on a wide range of psychological, developmental and evolutionary research to explore this fascinating question. This second edition of Why Gods Persist is designed for everyone interested in the subject, either as a student of psychology and anthropology of religion or as a follower of the current controversies over the value of religious belief.

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