Abstract

CORNEJO VALLE, Mónica. Cognitive perspectives on religion: Neo-intellectualism and ontologization of religious belief in two opposing naturalist theories. Intersecciones antropol. [online]. 2011, vol.12, n.1, pp. 95-108. ISSN 1850-373X.

This paper aims to show the unexpected links between cognitive anthropology and the anthropology of nature in relation to their approaches to religious beliefs. First, the reason for using "cognitive" in both cases will be explained. Second, the theory of intuitive ontology and counter-intuitive agency will be explored. Third, the theory of the ontologies of nature and its contribution to the anthropology of religion will be examined. Finally, a critical comparative reading of the theories will explore the consequences of treating religious ideas as ontologies.

Keywords : Beliefs; Religion; Cognition; Ontology; Anthropology.