Interbane wrote: We have evolved the tendency for false belief. Since there is no filter in our brain about what is true and what is false, we must excessively believe; it is safer to believe in danger than to not believe, therefore such belief is of survival value. Our traits have served us well and we're now kings of the planet, but we need to wage war against the beneficial-turned-detrimental trait of excessive belief.
Humans have also evolved a range of instinctive responses such as hatred, greediness, rape and revenge which are maladaptive in the modern global context. However, we do have a brain filter called rationality, which to me seems aligned to Christian virtues such as love and forgiveness. Irrational instinct - including the tendency to false belief - may have been adaptive in primitive times, but is now a danger to human survival. Going back again to the Sermon on the Mount, I would suggest a modern translation of Matthew 5:3-10 changing the word “blessed” to “adaptive”. Hence we get
Adaptive are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Adaptive are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Adaptive are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Adaptive are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Adaptive are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Adaptive are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Adaptive are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Adaptive are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
RT