Cognitive Regeneration and the Noetic Effects of Sin: Why Theology and Cognitive Science May not be Compatible

Justin Barrett and Kelly James Clark have suggested that cognitive science of religion supports the existence a god-faculty akin to sensus divinitatis. They propose God may given rise via guided evolution. This suggestion raises two theological worries. First, our natural cognition seems favor false god-beliefs over true ones. Second, it also makes us prone tribalism. If hates idolatry moral evil, why would he give mind with such biases? A Plantingian response point noetic effects sin. Such response, however, assume is restoring minds believers. paper considers empirical reasons doubt process taking place.