ISSEP-2026-02

GRANT ID#: ISSEP-2026-02

GRANT TITLE: Existential benefits of science and religion across cultures.

GRANTEE: University of Essex.

PRIMARY INVESTIGATOR: Natalia Zarzeczna.

CO-PRIMARY INVESTIGATORS: Aakash Bansal (Univ of Essex, UK), Roosa Haimila (Univ of Helsinki, Finland), Emma E. Buchtel (Univ of Hong Kong, China), Bastiaan Rutjens (Univ of Amsterdam, Netherlands).

GRANT AMOUNT: USD $3,119

DURATION OF GRANT PROJECT: April 15, 2026 – March 15, 2027.

Description of the Project

Executive summary:

Science and religion each have a potential to provide meaning. Transcending the material world, religion is often viewed as the primary source of existential comfort. Yet, religiosity is declining in Western countries, while new evidence reveals that aspects of scientific belief can also have existential benefits. But it is unclear whether and under which circumstances religion or science functions better to preserve meaning in contemporary societies. With equal levels of belief commitment, we propose that the two have an existential function, but their relative success in fulfilling it depends on belief content and socio-cultural context. In this project, we will examine to what extent different aspects of belief in science (e.g., scientific optimism) and religion (e.g., religious optimism) predict greater meaning in life in 3 diverse regions (US, Finland, China). This project will identify when different aspects of scientific and religious beliefs have existential benefits. Our findings will illustrate the possibilities and limitations of both belief systems as paths to meaning and ultimately wellbeing.

Itemized budget:

US: Prolific recruitment platform; £9/h per participant/+ platform fees and VAT (for a 10-minute study) 160 = £320.

China and Finland Qualtrics panels; £5.41 per participant + platform fees. 160 x 2 = £1,731 + £320

Total research expenses: £2,051 + £320 (data quality checks).

Grand total: £2372 = $3,119 USD

The total amount approved for this project is USD $3,119.