How did religion develop and why did it continue?

How religion evolved and why it persisted? By Robin Dunbar ... one of the most prominent scientists of evolution in the world approaches one of its fundamental puzzles: why do we believe? Our species diverged from the higher primates about six to eight million years ago. Since then, our tendency towards spiritual thinking and rituals has become evident. How did this happen, when, and why? What is the evolutionary purpose of religion? Are some individuals more inclined to religiosity than others? In his book How Religion Evolved, Robin Dunbar explores these questions and others, extracting the differences between ancient religions — as practiced by ancient hunting societies — and doctrinal religions, from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam to Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Through his examination of the origins of religion, its social functions, its effects on the brain and body, and its place in the modern era, Dunbar offers a remarkable and impactful analysis of the fundamental human drive towards faith. Author: Robin Dunbar Publisher: Asir Books Number of pages: 280