Ep 2. The God Brain

In season 7 episode 2 of Brain Games, entitled "The God Brain," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the nature of belief and the role it plays in shaping our perception of reality. From the ancient civilizations that sought to understand the workings of the universe through the lens of religion and myth, to the cutting-edge science of today that seeks to understand the neurological underpinnings of religious experience, this episode delves into the complex interplay between faith, reason, and knowledge.

Through a series of mind-bending experiments and interactive challenges, viewers are asked to consider how their own beliefs about the world shape their perception of reality. One example of this is a visual test designed to demonstrate the power of expectation: participants are shown a series of shapes and asked to identify them, but their answers are frequently contradicted by the actual shapes on screen. The idea behind this experiment is to show that our brains are wired to form expectations based on our prior experiences and beliefs, and that these expectations can sometimes override our sensory input.

In another segment, viewers are introduced to the concept of religious synesthesia, in which people report experiencing sensory impressions of religious figures or symbols. For instance, some people report seeing colors or shapes associated with specific religious figures or concepts, such as blue light when thinking about Jesus, or an elephant-like shape when contemplating the Hindu god Ganesha. This phenomenon is explored through interviews with individuals who experience synesthesia, as well as neuroscientists who study the brain mechanisms that may underlie these experiences.

Throughout the episode, viewers are encouraged to examine their own beliefs and assumptions about the world in light of the latest scientific research. One key takeaway from "The God Brain" is that while our beliefs can shape our perception of reality, they are also highly malleable in the face of new information and experiences. By remaining open to new ideas and questioning our assumptions, we can expand our horizons and discover new ways of understanding the world around us.

Overall, "The God Brain" is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between belief, perception, and reality. With its mix of cutting-edge science, interactive experiments, and insightful interviews, this episode of Brain Games is sure to leave viewers with a deeper appreciation for the complex workings of the human mind.