The Computations Underlying Religious Conversion: A Bayesian Decision Model

Abstract Inspired by recent Bayesian interpretations about the psychology underlying religion, paper introduces a theory proposing that religious conversion is shaped three factors: (i) novel relevant information, experienced in perceptual or social form (e.g., following interaction with missionaries); (ii) changes utility expressed an opportunity to raise rank) associated accepting new creed; and (iii) prior beliefs, favouring faiths that, although new, still remain consistent entrenched cultural views (resulting phenomenon of syncretism). From theory, multifactorial picture emerges. Based on which factor primarily engaged each case, classification different types can be derived, remarkable fit empirical literature. The offers description processes and, highlighting links among apparently incompatible previous views, it reconciles these within unifying framework.