- Question
Do we have a soul?
The soul as a concept is widely debated and has an array of definitions. It is broadly defined as the essence of our being, that which makes one who they are. It is normally considered beyond the physical world, and often eternal or immortal. For generations, humans have sought to explain the soul through religion, philosophy, and science, and there are countless theories and controversies regarding this question. Do we have a soul?
Philosophy establishes two theories of the soul
This position approaches the question of the soul through philosophy, which it says establishes two main theories. It contrasts monism, which treats soul and body as one and the same, with dualism, which holds the soul and body to be separate things.
Science is the ultimate answer to the question of the soul
The scientific consensus on the nonexistence of the soul goes contrary to natural human beliefs and centuries of religious teachings. However, some theories support the idea of a spiritual human essence.
Religious ideas have discussed the soul for centuries
This position approaches the soul through religion, humanity's long tradition of explaining our inner essence. It surveys how the major faiths conceive of it — from the divine connection of Christianity and Islam to Buddhism's impermanent self and the immortal, reincarnating soul of Hinduism.