Barrett, Justin L.
Born Believers: The Science of Children's Religious Belief
- ISBN 13:
- 9781439196564
- author:
- Barrett, Justin L.
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- Free Press
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2019
- Pages:
- 322
- Dimensions:
- 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.8 centimetres (0
- Genre:
- Science, Biology, General,
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 5 working days
Description
Children's religious beliefs are shaped by their natural curiosity about the world and their need to make sense of it. As they navigate the complexities of life, they begin to imagine a creative and intelligent agent that brings order and purpose to their existence.
Research by Professor Justin Barrett reveals that this process of imagination is rooted in the developing brain, and that it leads to the formation of complex belief systems about the world and the divine. He explores how these beliefs, which he terms a "natural religion," are shared across cultures and underlie the world's major religions.
This book offers a compelling argument for the human instinct for religion, and provides guidance for parents on how to encourage their children to develop a healthy and meaningful understanding of the world around them.