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Robert N. McCauley's book, Why Religion Is Natural and Science Is Not, explores the cognitive foundations that make religious belief intuitive for humans, while scientific thinking requires deliberate effort. McCauley argues that religion aligns with our natural cognitive processes, whereas science often challenges our innate intuitions.
Summary:
Naturalness of Religion: McCauley posits that religious thought is an extension of our natural cognitive tendencies. Humans are inclined to infer agency and purpose in the world, leading to intuitive religious beliefs.
Unnaturalness of Science: In contrast, scientific inquiry demands rigorous methodologies and abstract reasoning that are not instinctive. Scientific theories often present counter-intuitive concepts that challenge our everyday perceptions.
Cognitive Effort: While religious beliefs emerge naturally, engaging in scientific reasoning requires conscious effort and education. This distinction explains why religion is pervasive across cultures, whereas science is a more recent and less universally adopted endeavor.
Notable Quotes:
"Religion makes intuitive sense to us, while science requires a lot of work."
"Pursuing science reveals that the world is not as our folk beliefs would have it. The dominant theories in every mature science are radically counter-intuitive.
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