Divine deterrence could support modern sustainability goals

Divine deterrence could support modern sustainability goals
by Riko Seibo
Tokyo, Japan (SPX) Oct 16, 2025

Across ancient civilizations, belief in nature-linked deities often governed how people interacted with the environment. Sacred groves, rivers, and mountains were protected by spiritual taboos, discouraging exploitation through fear of divine punishment. Now, a new study explores whether such belief systems could again serve as a force for environmental stewardship.

Researchers from Doshisha University and collaborating institutions applied evolutionary game theory to investigate how belief in supernatural punishment affects human behavior toward natural resource use. Their model examined the interplay among three variables: the strength of belief in divine retribution, the intensity of resource exploitation, and the abundance of natural resources.

According to the analysis, sustainability can emerge when belief in supernatural punishment is strong enough to deter overexploitation yet moderate enough to remain socially acceptable. Under these conditions, the belief itself spreads within a community, functioning as a self-regulating enforcement mechanism without formal policing.

"Fear of divine punishment can, in certain contexts, be more effective than state-imposed penalties, which are costly to enforce," the authors explain. "Cultural beliefs can shape collective behavior and environmental outcomes in ways that institutions alone may not achieve."

Lead author Dr. Shota Shibasaki of Doshisha University drew inspiration from his own cultural experiences. "Growing up in Japan, I am familiar with folklore that portrayed nature as sacred and spiritually guarded," he said. "These stories left a lasting impression on me and sparked my curiosity about their societal functions."

The findings indicate that traditional belief systems could complement modern sustainability strategies, particularly in regions where folklore remains influential. Policymakers, the researchers suggest, might engage local cultural traditions to foster environmental responsibility when regulatory oversight is limited.

"Ultimately, this work contributes to a broader understanding of how human societies can have more harmonious relationships with nature - not just through regulation or technology but also through supernatural belief and culture," Dr. Shibasaki concluded.

Research Report:Fear of supernatural punishment can harmonize human societies with nature: an evolutionary game-theoretic approach