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Professor of Psychology

David DeSteno

Professor of psychology at Northeastern University specializing in moral behavior, social emotions, and the neuroscience of spiritual practice. His research bridges contemplative traditions and empirical psychology, demonstrating that religious rituals produce measurable neurological and physiological effects independent of theological belief.

Known For

Research on moral emotions and spiritual practiceNeuroscience of religious rituals and contemplationHow God Works framework

Canon

Books

How God Works: The Science Behind the Benefits of Religion(2024)

Episodes