Do people have souls?

Maha (No)

While the concept of the soul has deep roots in philosophy and religion, it may only be a comforting notion rather than a fact. Had souls existed, they wouldn’t have had so many interpretations. Even religions don’t agree on a single definition—although souls are one of the foundations of faith, and scriptures include ‘evidence’ of their existence.

Christianity, for instance, considers the soul central to the existence of people. It’s separate from the body and will exist even after the latter’s death. Meanwhile, Buddhism doesn’t believe in an unchanging, eternal soul. Instead, the “temporary composite of matter sensations, perceptions, thought and consciousness” undergoes many rebirths before reaching enlightenment. 

There’s also a current shift away from the use of the word ‘soul’ in some religions. Biblical scholars have begun using the word ‘self’ as science has yet to agree on the existence of souls (or lack thereof). While some scientists believe souls exist, an equal number—if not more—proved otherwise. Neuroscientists and psychologists have gone beyond disproving the existence of souls to show there’s no use for one. According to them, the brain performs all the functions attributable to the soul: keeping emotions, carrying out mental activity, perceiving sensations, and making decisions. Therefore, “there is nothing left for the soul to do.” 

The nonexistence of ghosts can also prove the absence of souls. Ghosts, or the souls of dead people, have been scientifically attributed to reasons such as low-frequency sound, mold, and people enjoying being afraid. With no proof of people being stuck with souls, those stuck believing in them may want to reconsider their stance. 

Mark (Yes)

A soul is every bit a part of our physical makeup as the more tangible aspects. Near-death experiences, as described by figures such as Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue, prove the presence of a soul. Another example is renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Eden Alexander. Eden was a notorious skeptic regarding the evidence and existence of the transcendental. Then, he suffered a rare illness that unfortunately and ironically affected his neurological health. While in a coma, he recounts being visited by a divine entity that altered his outlook entirely. This near-death experience is nothing short of proof of having souls. 

Most experts agree that the mind and the brain are not identical. Therefore, our souls are an extension of our minds. We store experiences and information in something infinite when compared to our brains, which are conditioned by repetition. Mind over matter is more than just a general expression. It's a process in which the human will is accumulated and assembled to overcome powerful obstacles. Our souls are the foundation of our sometimes indomitable will, pushing us to exceed prior limitations. This goes back to the stored data bank researchers, who have said it persists beyond our physical death.

Belief in souls also goes well with the idea of reincarnation, as it relies on human beings having souls. Uncanny and incredibly accurate recollections have provided evidence of the concept of reincarnation. The only explanation for this would be a soul simply transferring from one vessel to another. In modern society, Spiritualism has become one of the most popular forms of religion. Its entire basis is rooted in the soul outliving the human body. As we learn about ourselves from a metaphysical standpoint, the idea of a soul becomes undeniable.