Do humans have a faith instinct?

[xoxoxoBruce]

I can't image a hunter gatherer society really being successful with the entire group dedicated to the scientific method.

Before 150 years ago there was no scientific method, and until after WWII, it wasn't that widespread, now it's supposed to be infallible.
How did you hear about the last scientific discovery, you learned? Probably somebody told you, as I really don't think you know all that many breakthrough, award winning, scientists. I've met, I think two, but haven't known any. Anyway when that person told you about it, did you check on the scientist? Look at the original data?, Read the synopsis of the research? No, you believed them. Everyone does, unless it's something that they're sure would have a big impact on their life.

So you see, we still operate on faith. What we hear still becomes the truth, because we assume the people that should know, do know. Nothing's changed.