The Psychology of Religion
A Social Force

An engaging and historically grounded introduction to the psychology of religion and spirituality for both religious and non-religious readers.

Neil J. Kressel (Author)

9781108493390, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 31 October 2024

589 pages
26 x 18.6 x 3.6 cm, 1.27 kg

'… a good and accessible introduction into the field that is structured in a way that makes it easy for students to understand and professors to teach from. The greatest strength of Kressel's book is its accessibility, as seen in the writing and its full-color tables, figures, and images.' Kyle J. Messick, The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion

Many of the greatest minds in psychology have tried to unravel the mysteries, power, appeal, and consequences of religion. The task of understanding human behaviour will never be complete without the use of science and logic to examine the psychology of religion and spirituality. This undergraduate textbook provides an engaging and accessible tour of the field, drawing on historical, theoretical, and cutting-edge sources. It explores the origins and meaning of various forms of religious belief around the globe, with enhanced coverage of non-Christian religions, non-believers, and diverse populations. By focusing on the personal, medical, moral, social, and political consequences of religion, it explores how these findings can be applied in real-world scenarios. Students are supported by clear learning objectives, defined key concepts, varied end-of-chapter questions, further reading suggestions, and visual content, making this an invaluable resource for undergraduates in the psychology of religion and spirituality.

1. The untold story of the psychology of religion
2. Classic approaches to religion and spirituality
3. Behaviorism, neuroscience, and the cognitive science of religion
4. The sociological context
5. Research methods and the empirical tradition
6. Religious attitudes and beliefs around the world
7. Religious development, religious experience, and prayer
8. Religion and health
9. Religion and morality
10. Religious extremism
11. The challenge of real-world application.

Subject Areas: Psychology [JM]