Finding consonance: an integrative neurocognitive model of human relationships with supernatural agents

ABSTRACT

We selectively review existing neuroscience research on theistic relational cognition—construed as ritual practices directed toward supernatural agents. We present a tentative framework rooted in cultural and evolutionary models of religion for understanding the disparate findings of emerging neuroscience research on theistic cognition. We propose (with E. B. Davis et al. [2018]) that theistic cognition involves both experiential and group-sanctioned doctrinal representations of supernatural agents (SAs) with individuals aiming to integrate the two to attain a functioning form of theistic relational spirituality. Mismatches between individual experiences and group-level representations can be problematic for the individual as they indicate potentially dangerous divergence from group norms. Brain systems are recruited to detect these mismatches and repair them so that individual experiences more closely match group norms. Our review of the neuroscience literature suggests that the brain employs a 4-step sequential process to: (1) monitor for mismatches between individual vs group, (2) disengage executive control systems and internal working models (IWMs) of the self in relation to SAs, in order to format these for later repair (3) repair and adjust IWMs of the self in relation to SAs and updating religious beliefs, (4) register updated models as consonant with group doctrines.

KEYWORDS:

• Cognitive neuroscience
• theistic relational spirituality
• attachment theory
• neuroscience of religion
• supernatural agents

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by John Templeton Foundation.