Religious systems show variation between groups, are transmitted and modified over generations, and differ in their ability to gain and retain members. In other words, religions exhibit the key characteristics of an evolutionary system.泭
We build large-scale cross-cultural databases and use models from evolutionary biology to test theories about the functions and effects of religious systems. Examples of our research includes studies on , , and
We use text and language analysis, as well as experiments to study the role that culture plays in mentalising. Examples of our projects include studies , , and ongoing research testing claims about opacity of mind in Pacific languages.泭泭
Colexification of emotion concepts across languages
Dr. Joseph Watts is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the 厙ぴ勛圖. More information about Dr Watts is available on .泭
Esme is currently developing a new scales to test whether Credibility Enhancing Displays (CREDs) help explain the social transmission of conspiracy beliefs.泭.
Tom is developing a Turning-inspired test of the theory of mind competencies of large language models, such as ChatGPT.泭
Navdeeps thesis focuses on testing whether historically available materials constrain the representation of religious imagery and structures, and how these constraints might influence religious belief and behaviour.
Psychology Building, Ilam Campus
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