It was 400,000 years ago. A man sits in the mist of the jungle and observes two rocks in his hands. Perplexed by their texture and strength, he strikes them together, igniting a short spark. Amazed by the phenomenon he has created, he continues hitting the rocks until a huge spark ignites, not only burning his fingers, but setting the plants in front of him on fire. This man, classified as Homo erectus, marked a turning point in human evolution. Neurobiologists and researchers claim that the discovery of fire allowed humans to cook food, obtain warmth and protection, and increase all human activity, all leading to the tremendous growth of the human brain. Today, our brains have evolved so complexly that we are not only able to think and communicate, but also to believe and process both the transcendental and experiential aspects of religion. 500,000,000 years ago, the size of the hominid brain tripled. Recent studies by Timothy Rowe of the University of Texas at Austin found that the first significant increases in brain size occurred in the olfactory bulb, suggesting that early humans relied heavily on their noses to help them sniff food (Robson, 4). Through the use of fire, early humans ate more nutritious foods, which contributed to their brain development. Much of the brain's expansion took place in the neocortex. This part of the brain is involved in processing higher order cognitive functions related to human religiosity. The neocortex is associated with self-awareness, language and emotions. According to Dunbar's theory, "the relative size of the neocortex of any species correlates with the level of social complexity of the particular species." The size of the neocortex correlates with social variables such as...... middle of paper ......opment Language, tools, and belief systems all lead to the ultimate creation of religion. Religions are practiced today by more than 90% of human beings on earth. The feelings of connection that people experience because of religion are a function of social or religious rituals and rituals. Gatherings act as serotonin factories in the brain, improving mood. Humans created religion to give hope and purpose to their lives when it was dark and difficult. They wanted to find ways to strengthen their commitments when they felt adrift. centuries, adapting to circumstances and growing rapidly to make us more complex beings. It gave us religion, giving us a sense of community when we felt isolated and alone. Our brain has provided us with morals and principles that are impossible for us. become too big today. After all, it made us human!