Ep119 "Why do brains believe in the unbelievable?" with Bruce Hood

In 'Lord of the Flies', William Golding tells the story of a group of British schoolboys who are stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes. The novel follows their attempts to govern themselves and the gradual descent into chaos and savagery. The story is an allegory that explores themes of human nature, morality, leadership, and the fragility of civilization. Key characters include Ralph, who represents order and democracy; Jack, who symbolizes power and violence; and Piggy, the voice of reason. The novel highlights the tension between the desire for civilization and the primal savagery that lies beneath the surface of human society.

Bruce Hood's "Supersense" explores the human tendency to believe in the unbelievable, focusing on the psychological mechanisms behind our susceptibility to superstition and paranormal beliefs. Hood examines how our brains are wired to make sense of the world, often leading to intuitive leaps and interpretations that defy logic. He delves into the role of cognitive biases, cultural influences, and evolutionary pressures in shaping our beliefs. The book uses compelling examples and research findings to illustrate the power of our belief systems. Hood's work challenges readers to critically examine their own beliefs and understand the underlying psychological processes.