Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 1: Historical Foundations

Throughout history, the vast majority of people all across the world have thought they have a "soul", whatever that term means. While science cannot resolve the question of whether the soul exists, it can investigate the reasons and implications of diverse beliefs about the soul and its chances of surviving the death of the body. Why have soul and afterlife beliefs been so widespread throughout human history? Are there any adaptive benefits to believing in souls? Are there brain structures that have been molded by environmental influences that offer the foundation for many faiths' body/mind dualism? What impact do these ideas have on different cultures' worldviews and our collective lives? In religion, science, politics, and conflict, what role do complete afterlife views play? This course delves into numerous aspects of this little-studied yet vital part of the human mind and behavior.

The majority of the lectures are 70 to 80 minutes long and are often divided up into three segments. They were filmed during a Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences course. Slides and video clips are included in these videos. Most lectures come with slides that are utilized during the presentation, as well as a suggested reading assignment that may provide extra chances for you to reflect on your studies. The online course has been divided into three sections due to the length and natural flow of this curriculum; this is Unit 1.

This course offers:

• Flexible deadlines: Reset deadlines in accordance with your schedule.
• Shareable Certificate: Earn a Certificate upon completion
• 100% online: Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
• Beginner Level
• Approx. 19 hours to complete
• Subtitles: French, Portuguese (European), Russian, English, Spanish, Romanian

Course ratings: 4.5/5
Enroll here: https://www.coursera.org/learn/soulbeliefs