We can imagine our bodies being destroyed, our brains ceasing to function, our bones turning to dust, but it is harder - some would say impossible - to imagine the end of our very existence. Paul Bloom bodybonebrain Change image and share on social
It is clear that rituals and sacrifices can bring people together, and it may well be that a group that does such things has an advantage over one that does not. But it is not clear why a religion has to be involved. Why are gods, souls, an afterlife, miracles, divine creation of the universe, and so on brought in? Paul Bloom advantageafterlifebring share on social
Imagination is Reality Lite - a useful substitute when the real pleasure is inaccessible, too risky, or too much work. Paul Bloom imaginationinaccessiblelite Change image and share on social
The real problem with natural selection is that it makes no intuitive sense. It is like quantum physics; we may intellectually grasp it, but it will never feel right to us. Paul Bloom feelgraspintellectually Change image and share on social
We are naturally moral beings, but our environments can enhance - or, sadly, degrade - this innate moral sense. Paul Bloom beingdegradeenhance Change image and share on social
We are constituted so that simple acts of kindness, such as giving to charity or expressing gratitude, have a positive effect on our long-term moods. The key to the happy life, it seems, is the good life: a life with sustained relationships, challenging work, and connections to community. Paul Bloom actchallengecharity share on social