How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality
PRXWhile religion and science often seem at odds, there’s one thing they can agree on: people who take part in spiritual practices tend to live longer, healthier, and happier lives. The big question is: Why? In How God Works, professor Dave DeSteno takes us on a journey to find out how spirituality impacts our minds and bodies, as well as the world in which we live.
He speaks to leading scientists an... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 117 | Founded | 5 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | PhilosophySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
How God Works will be back with all new episodes in September. In the meantime, we're excited to feature an episode from our friends at Oh God Now What, hosted by Niala Boodhoo.
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In the debut episode, "Voting Your Morals," host Niala Boodhoo welco... more
As humans increasingly turn to AI for moral guidance and answers to life’s biggest questions, the lines between technology and religion are blurring—even leading some in Silicon Valley to wonder if AI might have a spiritual life of its own or be dest... more
Religion is often about powerful beings coming down from the skies and humans yearning to go up to join them. Does that mean we can swap aliens in for God? More and more people seem to think so. In fact, many spiritually-minded people are looking to ... more
Throughout history, humans have searched for signs and symbols to help them navigate uncertainty. From ancient Chinese divination texts and Greek oracles to astrology, tarot cards, and modern occult practices, divination has appeared in nearly every ... more
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This has grown on me with each listen. I continue to find it challenging and enlightening. Episodes are usually a calm and thoughtful exploration.
Podcast Addict56 months agoAurorespera- Listening for over a year
So I think the podcast is ok, seems to have a lot of filler material while missing some key takeaways. Sometimes it seems the focus is on someone who is an extremophile from a religious standpoint, which misses the larger audience which is closer to the middle.
I would seriously change the name of this podcast. Really? Are you saying you know how God works?
works??
Apple Podcasts3Cornell Big Red
United States8 months ago - Glad I found you!
I don’t remember how I found How God Works, but I’m so glad I did.
Apple Podcasts5llamalovin'chilUnited States9 months ago - A lens I didn’t know I needed
I grew up Pentecostal but I distanced myself from practicing religion over the years. I find many of the episodes spark my curiosity about faith and spirituality.
Apple Podcasts5Passenger 2025United Statesa year ago - Enlightening
Finally - Voices of reason discussing fascinating topics of faith through a scientific lens. No judgement & no preaching.
Apple Podcasts5NeneNonisUnited States2 years ago
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Apple Podcasts | #75 | United States/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
Apple Podcasts | #123 |  Canada/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
Apple Podcasts | #150 |  Germany/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
Apple Podcasts | #187 |  Australia/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
Apple Podcasts | #201 |  Italy/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
Apple Podcasts | #73 |  New Zealand/Society & Culture/Philosophy |
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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast
What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?
This program explores the intersection of science, spirituality, and everyday life, often featuring psychologists, theologians, philosophers, and journalists who discuss how belief, doubt, and spiritual practices impact well-being, ethics, and society. Episodes frequently cover AI ethics, doubt and doubt's role in faith, the science of morality, and how traditions from Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and other faiths intersect with contemporary culture, technology, and public life. A standout trait is its willingness to tackle provocative questions—such as whether machines could serve as spiritual guides or how genetic insights shape notions of sin—while grounding conversations in research and lived experience. Fans tend to value thoughtful, ... more
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1. Hidden Brain
2. Staying Human with Dr. Vivek Murthy
3. 10% Happier with Dan Harris
4. Wild Card with Rachel Martin
5. Untangle
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this podcast launched 5 years ago and published 117 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on this podcast?
Recent guests on this podcast include:
1. Curtis Chang
2. Jill Jacobs
3. Paolo Benanti
4. Elizabeth April
5. Michelle Pfeffer
6. Melissa Lavin
7. Robby Hoffman
8. Kathryn Paige Harden
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