Introduction to the Cognitive Science of Religion

Claire White is Associate Professor in Religious Studies at California State University, Northridge. She was appointed as the first tenure-track position in the cognitive science of religion at a religious studies department in the United States.

• 1. Introduction to the Cognitive Science of Religion 2. Core Assumptions about Religion and Belief 3. Research Questions 4. Methods 5. The Nature of the World 6. The Afterlife 7. Supernatural Agents 8.Morality 9. Rituals Part 1: How are Rituals Learned, Represented and Transmitted? 10. Rituals Part 2: What are the Functions of Rituals? 11. Conclusion Glossary

"The Cognitive Science of Religion (‘CSR’ for short) is often described as a ‘new field’ but it is rapidly maturing and that is why this introduction is urgently needed. Claire White is exceptionally well placed to provide it, having been among the first cohort of researchers to be trained in the field and now America’s first tenure track professor in CSR. This book is essential reading for any student interested in the scientific study of religion."Harvey Whitehouse, Oxford University, UK."This outstanding first-of-its kind introductory text on the cognitive science of religion represents a major step forward for this rapidly growing and high impact discipline. This groundbreaking book, written by one of the field’s foremost experts, is authoritative, accessible, and inclusive. I have no doubt that it will become part of the canon of core literature in the cognitive science of religion and will be instrumental in building this fascinating field of study."Cristine H. Legare, University of Texas at Austin, USA.