A striking silhouette of a man with dramatic green lighting casting bold shadows.

Your brain sees agents everywhere

Humans carry an overactive agency-detection system, quick to infer intelligent causes. Agency detection likely evolved to handle threats, even when none are there.

Why Humans Believe: The Brain’s Shortcuts

Two joyful African children look upwards with anticipation, capturing a moment of wonder and curiosity.

Born believers

Children are naturally inclined to believe in supernatural beings, even without training. We also think teleologically, seeking purpose in what we see.

Why Humans Believe: The Brain’s Shortcuts