St Andrews Encyclopaedia of Theology (Aug 2022)
Theology and the Cognitive Science of Religion
Abstract
Cognitive science of religion (CSR) is the study of how mental processes interact with and influence the formation and transmission of religious concepts. In this article, we examine how CSR may contribute to theological research and ministry practice. We begin with both an overview of CSR as a field and examinations of religious concepts and cognitive processes. We then address key concepts from Christian theology and scripture – the image of God (imago Dei), sense of the divine (sensus divinitatis), and ethics – and explore how CSR may contribute to research on these topics. We also consider how findings from CSR may influence everyday Christian life and ministry practice, specifically religious education and worship. Finally, we discuss limitations of and future directions for CSR.
