Bogoslovska smotra, Vol. 96 No. 1, 2026.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.53745/bs.96.1.4
God and the Brain: Theology and Neuroscience in Dialogue
Tonči Matulić
; University of Zagreb, Catholic Faculty of Theology, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The article explores certain specific challenges and important aspects of a partner dialogue between theology and neuroscience. Following the status quaestionis, reflections are organized in eight related units: the problem of neurotheology; the attitude of admiration; God and the brain; the capacity of the human brain for God; the challenges of the body soul-dualism; overcoming materialistic monism in neuroscience; the idea of the multi-layered complexity of human structure and existence; and points of convergence between the biblical and neuroscientific interpretation. At the heart of the reflections is the issue of understanding the relationship between body and soul, that is, the spiritual and material principle in a concrete human being understood as a human person who really exists as a spiritual-physical unity. Recognition of the spiritual principle in the human person opens up the possibilities of a wide-ranging and fruitful partnership in interdisciplinary dialogue between theology and neuroscience.
Keywords
theology; neuroscience; God; brain; anthropology; dualism; body; soul; human person
Hrčak ID:
349161
URI
Publication date:
11.7.2026.
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