A Sense of Continuity in Mortality? Exploring Science-Oriented Finns’ Views on Afterdeath

Abstract

Endorsement of science might entail a belief in "secular death", in which an individual faces annihilation as the bodily functions cease. In this article, we examine what science-oriented individuals think happens to humans after death. Does endorsement of science entail views on human annihilation or do people also express continuity beliefs? The open-ended responses of 387 Finns were analysed. The respondents were recruited online via organisations that promote science and research. The results suggest that while science-oriented Finns mainly endorsed annihilation and secular death, some also expressed (mostly nonreligious) views on continuation, e.g., in social bonds and nature. Secular forms of continuity were more likely mentioned by unbelievers, while theist respondents relied primarily on afterlife beliefs.