The Holy Spirit, cognitive transformation, and knowledge of God

Humans are naturally prone to form anthropomorphic, theologically incorrect beliefs. The idea is affirmed by key Christian thinkers, like John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas. The idea also received empirical support from cognitive theories of religious cognition. While most Christian thinkers claim that cognitive limitations can be overcome by the inner work of the Holy Spirit, most contemporary cognitive theories do not appear to support the idea that the human mind can change in a lasting way. In this paper, I explore routes how theories from cognitive neuroscience can provide support for lasting cognitive change away from anthropomorphism. Recent theories that point to increased neuroplasticity because of religious practices fit better with classical theological accounts. The theories support a theological account of inner cognitive transformation by the Holy Spirit.