Do humans have a faith instinct?

[Spexxvet]

Originally Posted by SamIam

.... If early groups of hunter/gatherers stuck together to fight wolves or big cats or human enemies from another tribe, they stood a much better chance of survival. This was altruism in action...

I see that as being mutually beneficial. Altruism is doing something that doesn't benefit you.

Originally Posted by Cloud

first, I think "faith" is different from religion, so no, I don't think faith is hardwired. What I do think is hardwired is curiosity. Humans are curious about the world around us and what makes it tick, and religion is one attempt to explain the unexplainable.

Exactly! There is little that we can't explain nowadays, mainly what we were before we were born, and what happens to us after we die.

Originally Posted by SamIam

A couple of more thoughts. Every living being fears its own death. If we weren't afraid to die practically no animals would populate the earth, so I wouldn't call faith in God narcissism on our part. It is more of a survival extinct. And even those who believe in God are not thrilled by dying, but I do think they get some comfort from the thought of heaven.

I think the bible was also an excellent guide for the survival of the species. Most of the rules in the old testament are helpful in keeping you alive, and making more humans.

Originally Posted by SamIam

... Many people are browbeat into a certain religous doctrine as children....

Browbeat? How about indoctrinated, brainwashed, habituated?