Explaining and Solving Practical Problems Supernaturally

• In Event: The Multifaceted Nature of Religious Belief, Practice, and Identity across Development and Culture

Abstract

Natural explanations—that events and outcomes are frequently just random occurrences with physical causes—are often not psychologically satisfactory. For example, explaining events by appealing to chance does not satisfy our desire to control our fate. Nor do explanations based on chance provide us with a means of averting adverse outcomes in the future. In many personally consequential situations, people generate both natural and supernatural explanations to explain proximate versus distal levels of causality, respectively. Many people may also engage in rituals to solve problems and ward off future adverse events. For example, many people in the Southern United States spin a button on their clothing when a hearse (vehicle carrying a coffin) passes by to protect themselves from death.

Why are we motivated to explain and solve events by appealing to supernatural agents or powers? We propose that one function of supernatural beliefs and behaviors is to increase the perception of control and reduce feelings of uncertainty. In general, humans attempt to reduce uncertainty in life as a means of emotional regulation and the maintenance of homeostasis. A fundamental principle of biology, the term homeostasis refers to regulatory functions within the nervous systems of organisms. These systems are automatic and create the internal conditions for maintaining life. When organisms are out of homeostasis, they take action to return to this state. For example, when an animal experiences hunger, it seeks out food. In humans, at least, the motivation to return to homeostasis is experienced as feelings, both physical and emotional. Like other animals, humans have a conscious and intentional means of regulation and are motivated to maintain a feeling of homeostasis, which we experience as well-being.

Experiencing something sacred or extraordinary in everyday life may increase well-being in various contexts and provide life with meaning. Open questions remain, however, about the nature of the relationship between supernatural beliefs and well-being. For example, why do humans seek meaning through supernatural beliefs and behaviors such as rituals? Meaning-making through supernatural explanations and practices may help people maintain psychological homeostasis.

In this presentation we will describe how people use supernatural beliefs and practices to explain and act upon their world. We will discuss why people engage in supernatural practices such as rituals meant to have a causal effect upon the world and solve concrete problems in their lives. First, we examine how people use supernatural explanations to interpret outcomes and events in their lives. Second, we consider how human psychology supports the belief that rituals have a causal influence on the world. Third, we describe how the combination of supernatural explanation and ritual practice provides a sense of control over life events and discuss the potential mechanisms underlying the connection between supernatural beliefs, rituals, and perceived control over the environment.

Authors

• Cristine H. Legare, University of Texas at Austin
  Presenting Author

• Rachel Watson-Jones