Cognitive Science of Religion Unit

Current Theories and Applications of the Cognitive Science of Religion

This call is intentionally broad in scope. We invite scholars who are using current cognitive theories and/or applied research in the study of religion, religions, or religious-related phenomena to submit a proposal for a paper or panel session for inclusion in the 2024 AAR-CSR Unit’s sessions.

4E Cognitive Approaches to Religious Phenomena

In recent years, 4E approaches to cognition have gained increasing attention. In contrast to computational approaches, which characterize cognition as a function of input and output, 4E describes cognition as embodied, embedded, enacted, and extended, complicating clear divisions between mind and world. Scholarship using this framework to explore religious phenomena has also been burgeoning. This call seeks papers exploring 4E approaches to religion. This might include instances of applied theory, methodological critics as they relate to religion, or even affinities between religious worldviews and those entailed by 4E.

Uncovering the Cognitive and Cultural Foundations of Gratitude

Historically, most research on gratitude as an emotional experience and its corresponding expressions has been conducted among WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) societies. The concept of gratitude and its phenomenology also has deep roots in Western civilization, and especially in Christianity. This panel explores the question of the gratitude as a universal experience and expression beyond WEIRD and Christian cultures by presenting research from a recent 3-year, multi-institution, multidisciplinary grant titled, “Uncovering the cognitive and cross-cultural foundations of gratitude”. Panel participants will likely be a mix of grantees from this project as well as non-grantee invited participants.

Terror Management Theory and Religion

This panel will explore religion from the perspective of Terror Management Theory. Please contact Kendra Holt Moore (kendraholtmoore@gmail.com) with questions.

Cosponsored: Psychadelics and the Cognitive Science of Religion

We invite proposals addressing psychedelic substances and spirit medicines in relation to contemplative practices and the neuropsychology of altered brain states, for co-sponsorship between the Cognitive Science of Religion Unit, Contemplative Studies Unit, and Indigenous Religious Traditions Unit.