Rituals of ultimacy: a neurotheological account of James K.A. Smith’s post-secular liturgy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Andrew Newberg has argued for bringing neuroscience and theology into more fruitful dialogue through a methodology he calls neurotheology. Additionally, the Christian philosopher James K. A. Smith has argued for a shift in understanding theological formation, away from an emphasis on cognitive belief and towards an appreciation of embodied ritual and his definition of liturgy. Following Newberg’s neurotheological methodology, this article argues that recent neuroscientific research supports Smith’s conception of liturgy. Moreover, by rejecting the exaggerated importance of intellect-focused accounts of religious formation, a neurotheological account of liturgy can contribute to a reconceptualization of personal identity, worldview, knowledge, and learning in general.