A Phycological experiment would be related to algae. If it is an experiment in psychology then it has demonstrated clearly people will do what they want regardless of the consequences.
Consciousness is ephemeral. No one is aware every moment they are awake and even when they are, they are not conscious of everything that could have conceivably been taken in, in those moments.
Reality is subjective, Actuality is objective. Two eyewitnesses may disagree on even the simplest of events. Their opinions have bearing on their beliefs and actions, but no effect on the actuality what what may have occurred. So yes, there are as many realities as there are perceivers, though reality is not quite what it is cracked up to be.
Did they ever need intelligence? You may be put out that ads don't meet some standard of Geewhiz and goshdarn but they were never invented to raise the level of consciousness or dialog. They are there to sell people on things that they likely do not ever need because you will stink, be a total loser and have no friends and totally lose out on the meaning of life if you don't purchase thus and so RIGHT NOW! or in three easy installments of 19.95..... Now how much would you pay!?! If you watch commercial TV you get what you pay for.
It varies. The philosophical Buddhism that has been exported to the west has no god, but many in the east still observe deities centuries after the introduction of Buddhism. There are western atheists that do not reject entirely supernaturalism, so are they Buddhists? I would think not.
If believing in unicorns was a commonplace there would likely be a word for not believing in them. As most people living or likely have ever lived express some sort of belief in gods and some still do not there is a need for the word.
Conscience I would say is basic and intrinsic to our species, an instinct. Which instinct would ever be in play alone? The "strongest" would vary with the time, the individual and the circumstances.
I think so. The force that the best is the force you don't have to use. I think they are playing long term hard ball devised to improve their hand and receive concessions.
RE: What happens to people when they open their hearts?
It depends on who they open them to and the contents thereof.