How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality Why Spirituality is Important in our Increasingly Secular World (Dave on the How to Be a Better Human Podcast)
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Jan 12, 2025 Dave DeSteno, a Psychology Professor at Northeastern University and author of 'How God Works,' discusses the vital role spirituality plays in our secular society. He highlights how spiritual practices can lead to healthier, happier lives, supported by empirical evidence. The conversation explores ancient rituals for processing grief and the significance of communal support. DeSteno emphasizes the importance of spirituality in navigating societal disconnection and promoting compassion, particularly through mindfulness and meditation.
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Science Can Study Spiritual Practices
- David DeSteno treats scientific study of spiritual practices as valuable regardless of belief in God.
- He argues traditions may contain wisdom useful for wellbeing that science should investigate.
Look For Practical Spiritual Practices
- Do religious prospecting: examine spiritual traditions for practices that solve human problems.
- Treat these traditions like bioprospecting to test which rituals genuinely help wellbeing.
Rituals Rework Grief Into Healing
- Eulogizing and communal rituals structure grief to consolidate positive memories and reduce prolonged pain.
- Rituals like sitting shiva provide synchronous action and instrumental support that ease mourning.
