Philosophy and Psychology of Belief: Exploring the God Dilemma

Why do humans believe in the unseen, and how do philosophy and psychology explain our search for meaning? This text-based course offers an accessible path through the historical debates and modern cognitive science behind belief, doubt, and the divine. By reading and reflecting on these core concepts, you will develop a nuanced understanding of how human cognition, evolutionary psychology, and philosophical arguments shape religious belief and skepticism. You will gain the critical tools to analyze classic arguments for and against the existence of a higher power, as well as modern perspectives on secularism. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational philosophical arguments for and against the existence of a higher power. - Explore the cognitive science of religion and how evolutionary psychology influences human belief systems. - Analyze the complex relationship between reason, faith, and subjective spiritual experiences. - Examine modern perspectives on secularism, agnosticism, and the psychology of doubt. - Evaluate how cultural frameworks and neurotheology research explain the persistence of religious belief. The course begins with foundational definitions and historical philosophical debates before transitioning into modern psychological and cognitive theories of belief. You will progress through structured readings and written exercises designed to challenge your assumptions and sharpen your analytical skills. This introductory course is designed for curious minds and beginners with no prior background in philosophy or psychology. Start your journey into the intellectual history and cognitive science of belief today.