Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/soulbeliefs2
### Course Review: Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 2: Belief Systems **Platform:** Coursera **Instructor:** [Instructor Name] (Note: Instructor name is typically provided on the course page) **Duration:** Self-paced --- **Overview** "Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 2: Belief Systems" offers a profound exploration of humanity's enduring fascination with the concept of the soul. This course specifically probes into the historical, psychological, and biological dimensions of beliefs surrounding the soul and afterlife. Given that science cannot definitively confirm the existence of a soul, the course focuses on understanding the implications and consequences of these beliefs throughout human history. Beliefs about the soul are not just philosophical musings; they shape societies, cultures, and individual behaviors. Unit 2 delves into pressing questions: Why do soul and afterlife beliefs persist across cultures? Are these beliefs beneficial for survival? The course also invites participants to ponder the psychological processes behind these convictions and their impact on human experience. --- **Syllabus Overview** 1. **Introduction to Unit 2** Establishes the foundation for the study of belief systems related to the soul and introduces key concepts. 2. **Thinking and Feeling** Discusses the emotional and cognitive processes involved in developing beliefs about the soul, highlighting the interconnectedness of thought and emotion. 3. **Terror Management** Explores the concept of terror management theory, which posits that human behavior is influenced by the fear of death and how beliefs in an afterlife serve as a coping mechanism. 4. **Internalized Beliefs I & II: The Evolution of Senses of Self in Childhood** Examines how beliefs are formed and internalized from a young age, focusing on the development of self-identity and its relation to concepts of the soul. 5. **After-Life, Out of Body, and Disembodied: What's the Evidence I & II** Investigates various forms of evidence related to out-of-body experiences and afterlife beliefs, encouraging critical analysis of these claims. 6. **Biological Perspectives on Beliefs** Looks at the neurological basis for why humans harbor beliefs about the soul, focusing on brain structures and their evolution. 7. **The Brain and Our Emotional Future** Discusses the implications of belief systems on mental health and emotional well-being, suggesting that our understanding of the soul can shape our outlook on life and death. 8. **The Biology of Thou Shalt Not** Analyzes moral frameworks and how belief systems about the soul influence ethical behavior. 9. **The Undesired Self** A thought-provoking session that evaluates the concept of the 'undesired self' and how it interacts with belief systems. 10. **General Course Pages** Provides supplemental resources and information to enhance the learning experience. --- **Recommendation** I highly recommend "Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 2: Belief Systems" for anyone interested in the intersection of psychology, philosophy, and neuroscience. This course is particularly valuable for students, educators, and curious minds who wish to understand why beliefs about the soul are so pervasive and how they affect not only individual behaviors but also societal dynamics. **Pros:** - **Interdisciplinary Approach:** The course combines insights from psychology, biology, and philosophy, offering a well-rounded perspective on the topic. - **Expert Instruction:** The teaching is clear and engaging, with practical examples that bridge theory and real-world application. - **Critical Thinking:** Students are encouraged to analyze and critique evidence critically, fostering a deeper understanding of belief formation. **Cons:** - **Self-Paced Learning:** While flexibility is a benefit, some learners may prefer a more structured schedule to keep them engaged and accountable. - **Limited Interactive Elements:** Depending on the course format, there may be fewer opportunities for live discussions or feedback. In summary, if you are curious about the human experience regarding life, death, and the belief in a soul, this course is a rich resource that you shouldn't miss. Enroll today and embark on a journey of exploration and understanding that could change how you view existence itself.
Introduction to Unit 2
Thinking and FeelingTerror ManagementInternalized Beliefs IInternalized Beliefs II: The Evolution of Senses of Self in ChildhoodAfter-Life, Out of Body, and Disembodied: What's the Evidence IAfter-Life, Out of Body, and Disembodied: What's the Evidence? IIBiological Perspectives on BeliefsThe Brain and Our Emotional FutureThe Biology of Thou Shalt NotThe Undesired SelfGeneral Course PagesThroughout history, the vast majority of people around the globe have believed they have, however defined, a “soul.” While the question of whether the soul exists cannot be answered by science, what we can study are the causes and consequences of various beliefs about the soul and its prospects of surviving the death of the body. Why are soul and afterlife beliefs so common in human history? Are there adaptive advantages to assuming souls exist? Are there brain structures that have been shaped
The professorsoffer science and facts; the superstitious offer dogma.
Amazing class that really helps you to look your core beliefs and understand why and how your are the person that you are!\n\nReally good professors and materials~ 10000 worthily!
A unique course that combines science, religion, psychology, and history for the purpose of understanding human nature and the human mind. Thanks for the valuable course.
An excellent presentation. Guest lecturers outstanding. Forces a person to really question beliefs rather than accepting at face value. Excellent points raised by learned professionals.
Thoughtful, multi-disciplinary course.. Bravo for the effort.