Questions: In contrast to the position taken by many evolutionary biologists and evolutionary psychologists (explained in question #5), some scientists and social scientists see the human predilection or inclination to adhere to systems of religious belief and correlated ritualized behavior as evolutionarily advantageous. These thinkers assert that this predilection is actually adaptive because it is conducive to individual and species survival and thriving. New York University Social Psychologist, Jonathan Haidt, is in this proverbial "camp." Please view and be engaged by Professor Haidt s TedTalk entitled "Religion, Evolution, and the Ecstasy of Self-Transcendence," embedded below. What does Professor Haidt mean by "self transcendence"--the human psychological capacity for self transcendence? Since a traditional "staple" or mainstay of religious and spiritual belief is self-transcendence, how is religious and/or spiritual belief actually advantageous to human beings--conducive to individual and species survival/thriving and, thus, evolutionary biological "fitness"?

The answer is that Professor Jonathan Haidt refers to "self-transcendence" as the human psychological capacity to go beyond one's own self-interest and personal concerns to connect with something larger than oneself, such as a group, a cause, or a higher power. This capacity for self-transcendence is often facilitated by religious and spiritual beliefs and practices.

Self-transcendence involves the ability to step outside of one's own immediate needs and desires to engage in behaviors and thoughts that benefit others or align with a greater purpose. This concept is central to many religious and spiritual traditions, which often encourage individuals to look beyond their own lives and consider their place within a larger context.

1. Social Cohesion and Cooperation: Religious and spiritual beliefs often promote social cohesion by encouraging individuals to adhere to shared values and norms. This can lead to stronger, more cooperative communities, which are better able to survive and thrive. For example, rituals and communal worship can foster a sense of belonging and mutual support among members of a group.

2. Psychological Well-being: Engaging in religious and spiritual practices can provide individuals with a sense of purpose and meaning, which can enhance psychological well-being. This can lead to lower levels of stress and anxiety, better mental health, and increased resilience in the face of challenges.

3. Moral Framework: Many religions provide a moral framework that guides behavior and decision-making. This can lead to more ethical behavior and reduce conflicts within a community, contributing to social stability and cooperation.

4. Altruism and Prosocial Behavior: Religious teachings often emphasize the importance of helping others and engaging in prosocial behavior. This can lead to increased altruism and acts of kindness, which can strengthen social bonds and improve the overall well-being of the community.

From an evolutionary perspective, behaviors and traits that enhance an individual's ability to survive and reproduce are considered advantageous. Religious and spiritual beliefs can contribute to evolutionary fitness by promoting behaviors that enhance social cohesion, psychological well-being, and prosocial behavior. These factors can improve the chances of survival for both individuals and their communities, making them more likely to pass on their genes to future generations.

In summary, Professor Haidt's concept of self-transcendence highlights the ways in which religious and spiritual beliefs can be evolutionarily advantageous by fostering social cohesion, psychological well-being, and prosocial behavior, all of which contribute to individual and species survival and thriving.