Researchers have discovered that brain damage intensifies religious fundamentalism

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In a world characterized by diverse beliefs and viewpoints, understanding the neurological underpinnings of how we form and hold onto our beliefs is both fascinating and essential. A groundbreaking study published in Neuropsychologia sheds light on the connection between brain network damage and increased religious fundamentalism. This research offers intriguing insights into how certain types of brain injuries can affect cognitive flexibility, ultimately influencing the rigidity of one’s belief systems.

The Study at a Glance

The study, led by Jordan Grafman and his team in 2018, focused on a unique group of individuals: Vietnam War veterans who had suffered traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). By examining a specific brain region known as the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), the researchers sought to understand how damage to this area might correlate with changes in religious beliefs.

Key Findings

Damage to the vmPFC and Increased Fundamentalism

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in processing risk, fear, and decision-making. The study found that veterans with damage to the vmPFC exhibited higher levels of religious fundamentalism compared to those without such injuries. This…