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26 May 2005
Is there a biological foundation for the pervasive
presence of spirituality across human cultures? Can that
foundation be found in the DNA itself? Dean Hamer proposes
that possession of a version of one gene, VMAT2 (vesicular
monoamine transporter), correlates with higher scores on
psychological tests for self-transcendence. His research
suggests that the particular version of this gene is a more
reliable marker for having a spiritual inclination than
is upbringing or environment. By contrast, adherence to
formal, organized religious beliefs is primarily a matter
of family background, and is more likely a product of memes
than of genes. He will discuss his findings and their consequences
for understanding spirituality and religion.
Keynote Speaker
- Dean H. Hamer,
Ph.D., Laboratory of Biochemistry
Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health
Respondent
- Lindon J. Eaves,
Ph.D., Distinguished Professor, Departments of Human Genetics and Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University
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