Intelligence Squared Why Religion Keeps Evolving, with Robin Dunbar
Jul 25, 2022
Robin Dunbar, Emeritus Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, discusses his insights on the evolution of religion and humanity’s innate need for belief. He explains Dunbar's number and how it shapes social connections while emphasizing religion's role in fostering community cohesion. Stuart Ritchie, from King's College London, joins him to explore the psychological and social aspects of faith, the evolution of religious structures in society, and the impact of rituals on social bonding, revealing intriguing connections between religion, community, and human behavior.
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Dunbar's Number
- Dunbar's number suggests a cognitive limit of around 150 meaningful relationships.
- This limit applies to personal networks and organizational structures, impacting information flow efficiency.
Religion's Social Function
- Religion fosters community bonding through rituals and a sense of belonging.
- This "mystical stance" connects individuals to the divine, overriding belief-based joining.
Religion and Well-being
- Actively religious individuals tend to experience greater happiness, life satisfaction, and resilience.
- They often exhibit better physical health, quicker recovery, and increased longevity.