An Introduction to the Psychology of Religion

The third edition of this successful book, which applies the science of psychology to problems of religion.

Robert H. Thouless (Author)

9780521096652, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 6 January 1972

164 pages
21.5 x 14 x 1 cm, 0.22 kg

'Quite admirable … no more competent and instructive manual could be put into the hands of students … here is a book which drives nonsense and vagueness out of the mind.' Hibbert Journal

The third edition of this successful book, which applies the science of psychology to problems of religion. Dr Thouless explores such questions as: why do people believe? Why are their beliefs often held with irrational strength? How are changes in belief systems related to mental health? What are reasonable attitudes towards alternative belief systems? This edition includes samples of the experimental and statistical studies of religious problems, including the author's own study of the strength of religious beliefs. This edition also pays more attention to the problems of non-Christian religious systems, with special consideration given to the problems of mutual toleration. Finally Dr Thouless considers whether it is reasonable for modern man to adhere to any religious belief system. This is an excellent textbook for students of the social sciences, particularly psychology and theology, and will also interest the general reader who has an intellectual curiosity about religion.

Preface
1. How the psychological study of religion began
2. Psychology and religion
3. The psychological roots of religion
4. The social factor in religion
5. The natural factor in religion
6. The moral conflict
7. The emotional factor in religion
8. Religion and human needs
9. The intellectual factor in religion
10. Religion and psychotherapy
11. Psychical research and religion
12. The psychology of prayer
13. The psychology of meditation
14. The psychology of conversion
15. Mysticism
16. Practical problems of religious diversity
17. The empirical argument for religious faith
Index.

Subject Areas: Psychology [JM]