Adieu to God : why psychology leads to atheism / Mick Power.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Power, Michael J., author.

Contributor:

ebrary, Inc.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Psychology, Religious.

Psychology and religion.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xi, 201 pages)

Place of Publication:

Chichester, West Sussex ; Malden, Mass. : Wiley-Blackwell, 2012.

System Details:

text file

Summary:

Rumors of the shortcomings and death of organized religion abound in modern society. However, even in the face of overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, organized religion continues to prosper. In Adieu to God, psychologist and atheist Mick Power examines this dichotomy from a psychological perspective. He argues that although religion provides certain social and psychological benefits, atheism provides a more fulfilling path to these objectives.

In recent years, scientists have officially disproven the existence of gods and the supernatural. Yet, these beliefs persist because of the comfort and sense of understanding these ideas offer their followers. Power argues that these religious beliefs must be viewed through both a psychological and social lens. He uses examples from a variety of religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Scientology and Mormonism, to demonstrate how psychological principles explain key religious beliefs and phenomena. At the same time, he incorporates the latest research in psychology, sociology, anthropology, psychiatry and medicine to show the ways in which atheism supercedes the benefits of organized religion and can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Thorough and balanced, Mick Power gives a complete look at the psychological implications of organized religion while also providing a convincing argument for atheism in today's world. Book jacket.

Contents:

A short history of religion

The psychology of religion-the varieties of normal experience

The psychology of religion-the varieties of abnormal experience

Social structures and religion

Religion, power, and control

Religion and health

How to be a healthy atheist.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Electronic reproduction. Palo Alto, Calif. : ebrary, 2012. Available via World Wide Web. Access may be limited to ebrary affiliated libraries.

OCLC:

778436300

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license.