Cigarettes for the dead: effects of sorcery beliefs on parochial prosociality in Mauritius

Research testing evolutionary models of religious morality shows that supernatural beliefs in moralizing gods positively affect prosociality. However, the effects related to local agents have not been extensively explored. Drawing from a Mauritian Hindu sample, we investigated and practices two different types (spirits deceased unconcerned with morality) on preferential resources allocation receivers differing geographical social closeness participants. These spirits are ambiguously linked either ancestor worship or sorcery practice. Previous studies suggested erode bonds trust, but such research is often limited by stigma missing relevant comparison other beliefs. To overcome these limitations, used nuanced free-list data discriminate between modes spirit tested how each contributes decision-making economic games (Random Allocation, Dictator). Expressing together performing rituals addressed was associated greater probability rule-breaking for selfish/parochial outcomes Random Allocation Game (compared worship). No difference money allocations found Dictator Game.