Science and religion around the world: compatibility between belief systems predicts increased well-being

Religion, Brain & Behavior • Vol/Iss. 0(0): unavailable • Routledge • • Published In • Pages: 1-20 •
By Price, Michael E., Johnson, Dominic D. P.

Abstract

While a growing body of research being conducted in Western societies suggests that both religious/spiritual (R/S) and so-called “pro-science” belief systems are correlated with better health and well-being, a widespread perception also exists that these two categories of belief systems are fundamentally incompatible. This article tests that perception. The authors finds that cross-culturally – and particularly outside of modern Western societies – it is largely incorrect. Rather, around the world individuals adhere to both R/S and pro-science belief systems at the same time, and often benefit from both of them.

Samples

Sample Used Coded Data Comment
Qualtrics Survey DataResearchers' OwnResponses from 55,230 in 13 distinct global cultural regions

Hypotheses (4)

HypothesisSupported
The perceived compatibility between a group’s religious/spiritual and “pro-science” belief systems is positively correlated with the health and well-being of the group’s members.Supported
In western societies, belief in a higher plan (BHP) and belief in science (BSci) tend to show significant negative correlation.Supported
In regions with higher levels of perceived compatibility between religious/spiritual and "pro-science" belief systems, level of belief in a higher plan (BHP) is positively correlated with physical and mental well-being.Supported
In regions with higher levels of perceived compatibility between religious/spiritual and "pro-science" belief systems, level of belief in science (BSci) is positively correlated with physical and mental well-being.Supported
Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: seb.wanggaouette