One of the standard stories is that it’s about social cohesion. Especially with rituals done as a group, and other features like visibly taking on costly restrictions in a way that demonstrates buy-in.
Sosis & Alcorta (2003). Signaling, solidarity, and the sacred: The evolution of religious behavior.
One of the standard stories is that it’s about social cohesion. Especially with rituals done as a group, and other features like visibly taking on costly restrictions in a way that demonstrates buy-in.
Sosis & Alcorta (2003). Signaling, solidarity, and the sacred: The evolution of religious behavior.