God of the Gaps Fallacy Illustrated by Bing

Times When God Had to Step Aside

The God of the Gaps Fallacy Has a Long History

Can you compile a list of God of the Gaps fallacial statements over time, such as epilepsy was thought to be demonic possession? I guess I am not interested solely in God of the Gaps (although that is its name). I am more interested in the totality of supernatural claims that gave way to scientific explanations.

Here’s a list of historical instances where supernatural claims were used to explain phenomena that later received scientific explanations:

Natural Phenomena & Earlier Supernatural Explanations

• Thunder and Lightning: Many ancient cultures attributed thunder and lightning to the actions of gods. Norse mythology had Thor, while the Greeks had Zeus.
• Disease: Illnesses, especially epidemics, were often blamed on supernatural forces. For example, the Black Death was seen by some as divine punishment.
• Mental Illness: Conditions like epilepsy or schizophrenia were frequently attributed to demonic possession or spiritual affliction.
• Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods were often interpreted as signs of divine anger or punishment.
• Celestial Events: Eclipses, comets, and the movement of stars and planets were…