Freud and Religion: Advancing the Dialogue (Cambridge Studies in Religion, Philosophy, and Society)
Cambridge University Press, 5/27/2021
EAN 9781108453707, ISBN10: 1108453708
Paperback, 292 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.7 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
We live in an era that often described as 'therapeutic.' Our culture is suffused with unconscious fantasies and psychoanalytic ways of thinking about self, other, and society. Aspects of the Freudian cultural universe have also had an impact on how we think about religion. In this volume, William Parsons explores the relationship between religion and psychoanalysis through multiple, linked investigations. Why did Freud write about religion and what did he say? What were the multiple critiques levelled at his work? What were the post-Freudian psychoanalytic advances? How can we still apply psychoanalytic ideas going forward? In answering these and related questions, Parsons distinguishes between classic-reductive, adaptive, and transformational psychoanalytic models. He also argues that the psychoanalytic theory of religion needs to integrate reflexive, dialogical, and inclusive elements as part of its toolkit. Offering illustrations and applications of such revisions, Parsons creates new capacities for thinking psychologically and critically about religion.
1. Why Freud wrote on Religion
2. Totem and taboo
the origin of religion
3. Freud's Moses
the advent of monotheism
4. Future of an illusion
the secular cure of souls
5. Civilization and its discontents
the Unbehagen of religion
6. Freud and eastern religions
7. Psychoanalysis and religion beyond Freud
8. Revisions and applications
Conclusion
Psychoanalytic spirituality.