New Books in Anthropology
Neil Van Leeuwen, "Religion As Make-Believe: A Theory of Belief, Imagination, and Group Identity" (Harvard UP, 2023)
Sep 17, 2024
Neil Van Leeuwen, an author and researcher, delves into the intriguing realm of belief, imagination, and group identity. He argues that religious beliefs function similarly to imaginative play, creating a layered cognitive experience. Van Leeuwen discusses how communal identities are shaped through these beliefs and contrasts emotional engagement with factual foundations. He also highlights the interplay of prayer and action, the dynamics of faith versus doubt, and the complexities of childhood belief systems, ultimately revealing that belief often transcends empirical evidence.
01:17:12
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Quick takeaways
- Religious beliefs operate as imaginative constructs rather than merely factual assertions, allowing individuals to define group identity through make-believe.
- The two-map cognitive structure enables individuals to distinguish between factual reality and imaginative scenarios, informing their engagement with religion.
Deep dives
Understanding Religious Beliefs
Religious beliefs are distinct from ordinary factual beliefs, as articulated in cognitive terms. These beliefs function more like imaginative attitudes akin to make-believe play rather than verifiable facts. The author argues that while such beliefs may appear similar in terms of the language used, they represent different ways of relating to ideas. This leads to the conclusion that religious credence operates independently from evidential support, allowing individuals to hold onto their faith in a compartmentalized manner.
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