Study Finds Belief in Evolution Reduces Prejudice and Promotes Conflict Resolution in Israel, Muslim-Majority Countries, and Eastern Europe

What shapes the way we perceive and treat others? A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology has shed light on an unexpected factor: belief in human evolution. Led by Stylianos Syropoulos and a team of researchers, the study explores how belief or disbelief in evolution correlates with prejudice, discrimination, and even our ability to resolve conflicts. These findings cross borders, cultures, and religions, making the implications particularly compelling.coexist

Research Findings Across the Globe

The study analyzed data from 45 countries, uncovering a consistent link between disbelief in evolution and higher levels of prejudice. This included biases against marginalized groups such as LGBTQ individuals, immigrants, and ethnic minorities. But the study goes even further and reveals how this disbelief plays out across vastly different societies.

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Patterns in Eastern Europe

In 19 Eastern European nations, disbelief in evolution was associated with deeply engrained biases against groups like gypsies, Jews, and Muslims. The cultural history of the region, marked by complex intergroup tensions, makes this finding especially relevant. It suggests that rejecting the concept of shared human ancestry may deepen existing divides.

Prejudice in Predominantly Muslim Countries

In 25 Muslim-majority countries, belief in evolution corresponded with reduced prejudice toward Christians and Jews. Here, the data paints a hopeful picture: even in regions with strong religious identities, acceptance of evolution fosters more inclusive attitudes towards others.

Conflict and Peace in Israel

The study’s findings from Israel are perhaps the most striking. Among Palestinians, Arabs, and Jews, belief in evolution was linked to greater support for peace and conflict resolution. In a context where tensions often run high, this connection suggests that a broader acceptance of shared humanity could pave the way for dialogue and cooperation.

Across these regions, disbelief in evolution also correlated with a diminished willingness to engage in conflict resolution. This raises an important question: could teaching evolution actively encourage a more collaborative, less divided world?

Why Does Belief in Evolution Matter?

Expanding the Moral Circle

At the heart of this phenomenon lies what researchers call the “moral circle.” Believing in evolution may expand this circle, prompting individuals to view all humans as interconnected. When people see themselves as part of a shared lineage, the “us vs. them” mentality weakens, replaced by a greater sense of empathy.

Seeing Ourselves in Animals

Another layer to the findings involves how individuals perceive their similarity to animals. Those who feel a closer connection to animals tend to display greater pro-social behaviors. This could explain why belief in evolution is tied to reduced prejudice: it reinforces the idea that we are more alike than different, both within and across species.

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A Universal Trend

Another one of the study’s most fascinating revelations is the universality of its findings. Whether in Eastern Europe, Muslim-majority countries, or Israel, not believing in evolution reliably predicted higher prejudice and lower support for conflict resolution. This consistency underscores the role of belief in evolution as a common denominator, shaping attitudes in diverse cultural and political landscapes.

Misconceptions About Evolution

Historically, evolutionary theory has been misused to justify harmful ideologies, such as eugenics and “survival of the fittest.” This study challenges those outdated narratives, demonstrating instead that belief in evolution is linked to inclusivity and cooperation. It’s a reminder that science, when properly understood, can serve as a force for unity rather than division.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does belief in evolution affect attitudes within a person’s own group?

It reduces ingroup bias and fosters empathy toward outgroups.

What specific prejudices were reduced in Eastern Europe?

Biases against Muslims, Jews, and Gypsies.

Why were Muslim-majority countries included in the study?

To assess if the findings hold true in diverse cultural and religious settings.

Does belief in evolution contradict religious faith?

No, belief in evolution predicts reduced prejudice independently of religiosity.

Can belief in evolution help resolve political conflicts?

Yes, it promotes empathy and support for conflict resolution.

How was the study conducted?

Using data from 60,703 participants in surveys across 45 countries and additional data from 2,846 online crowdsourced participants

Is this effect universal, or does it vary by culture?

It’s universal, though specific prejudices vary by region.

Why does disbelief in evolution correlate with reduced conflict resolution support?

It reinforces group divisions and reduces empathy.

Does teaching evolution automatically reduce prejudice?

Not directly, but it can promote more inclusive attitudes.

What other factors were considered in the study?

Education, political views, and religiosity were controlled.

Can belief in evolution reduce prejudice in religiously conservative societies?

Yes, it reduces prejudice even in highly religious groups.

Why does disbelief in evolution correlate with less support for conflict resolution?

Rejecting the idea of a shared human ancestry may strengthen group boundaries and foster an “us vs. them” mindset. This makes it harder to empathize with others and engage in cooperative problem-solving.

Can teaching evolution reduce prejudice?

While the study doesn’t establish causation, it suggests that understanding evolution could help broaden perspectives and reduce biases. Teaching evolution might have the potential to foster more inclusive and harmonious societies.

What about regions with strong religious beliefs?

The study controlled for religious variables and found that disbelief in evolution predicts prejudice independently of religiosity. This means that even deeply religious individuals who accept evolution are less likely to hold prejudiced views compared to those who reject it.

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Conclusion

This research offers valuable insights into the connection between belief in evolution and social attitudes. Across cultures and continents, disbelief in evolution is consistently linked to prejudice and reduced willingness to resolve conflicts. Conversely, belief in evolution fosters a sense of shared humanity, encouraging inclusivity and cooperation.

Could promoting evolution education help create a more tolerant world? While further research is needed, these findings open the door to new possibilities. By understanding and accepting our shared origins, we may take one step closer to bridging divides and building more cohesive societies. The evidence suggests it’s worth exploring—and worth teaching.

References

Syropoulos, S., Lifshin, U., Greenberg, J., Horner, D. E., & Leidner, B. (2022). Bigotry and the human–animal divide: (Dis)belief in human evolution and bigoted attitudes across different cultures. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 123(6), 1264–1292. https://doi.apa.org/buy/2022-32126-001

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