Demonology (EVIL SPIRITS) with Dr. Alyssa Beall

Dr. Alyssa Beall studies historical beliefs in demons and witches. She watches — but is scared of — horror movies.

Dr. Alyssa Beall studies historical beliefs in demons and witches. She watches — but is scared of — horror movies.

Demons, spooky spirits, devils, fallen angles, hungry ghosts: every culture has them. And West Virginia University Religious Studies professor, demonologist and history buff Dr. Alyssa Beall runs down how humans have used myths and stories to explain the feelings that make our hairs stand up and our stomaches sink. Is possession a mental illness? Are demons pranksters from hell? Is your baby evil or just cranky? And why do we like to be scared and poke at the line between life and death? Also: demon dongs. Oh wow.

Listen via Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Omny or wherever you get podcasts.

The BrainAlie Ward