A LITERATURE REVIEW OF NEUROTHEOLOGY: HOW RELIGION AFFECTS THE BRAIN
Author
Clark, Alexis ElizabethIssue Date
2018Advisor
Oberman, Hester
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The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
Because of the 5.8 billion individuals in the world engage in religious practice, it is important to know how religiosity and religious practices affect the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of an individual. This fact is only enhanced by the fact that these numbers are expected to rise by 32% by 2060, according to a 2015 Pew Research study. 29By noting the various neurophysiologies between those who are religious and nonreligious, society can better understand the psychological processing that goes behind groups forming political policy, health care systems, and humanitarian efforts. Within this literature review, I research how genetic predisposition can impact associated religious affiliation, what influence spiritual experience has on the brain and how religious affiliation, or lack thereof, can mean for individual behavioral tendencies. The review concludes that there is a plethora of data showing both how religion affects the brain and how the genetically predisposed brain structure can influence religious practice.Type
textElectronic Thesis
Degree Name
B.S.Degree Level
bachelorsDegree Program
Honors CollegeNeuroscience & Cognitive Science