Episodes
| Episode | Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Evolution | 20100324 | 20100510 20100510 (R4) | ' Matthew Taylor discovers what the latest scientific research can tell us about the human need for religion. We are programmed by our genes to believe in supernatural powers and to obey moral codes. Is this because it gave our ancestors an evolutionary advantage? Iranians, Scandinavians, Papuans, chimpanzees, twins and wedding rings offer some startling answers. Did a belief in supernatural powers give our ancestors an evolutionary advantage? |
| 02 LAST | Neurology | 20100331 | Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the RSA, discovers what the latest scientific research can tell us about the human need for religion. Almost half the population claim to have felt the presence of a power beyond themselves. But what happens in the brain during religious experiences? If magnetism can produce visions, then what price mysticism and meditation? What's the difference between sainthood and schizophrenia? And why are many believers convinced that God speaks to them in their dreams? Producer: Peter Everett. ' Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the RSA, discovers what the latest scientific research can tell us about the human need for religion. Part 2: Neurology Almost half the population claim to have felt the presence of a power beyond themselves. But what happens in the brain during religious experiences? If magnetism can produce visions, then what price mysticism and meditation? What's the difference between sainthood and schizophrenia? And why are many believers convinced that God speaks to them in their dreams? Producer: Peter Everett. |