To Perform, or Not to Perform? A Theory of Ritual Performance Versus Cognitive Theories of Religious Transmission

Abstract

One of the more exciting recent developments in the study of religion has been the discovery of the relevance of cognitive science to religion. Anthropologists, psychologists, and even some historians of religion have applied the theories and findings of cognitive science to explain such important religious phenomena as the belief in supernatural beings and the regularity of certain forms of religious ritual. Although cognitive theories of religion have significant implications for our understanding of such widespread aspects of traditional religion, and have become increasingly sophisticated and powerful, the awareness of these theories within religious studies remains confined to a small (but growing) cir cle of scholars.2 The present essay attempts to widen that circle, out of a conviction that both cognitive approaches to religion and more tra ditional historical and humanistic approaches would be enriched by cross-fertilization.