Magic and Religion: Their Psychological Nature, Origin, and Function

Magic and Religion: Their Psychological Nature, Origin, and Function
ISBN-10
1504081250
ISBN-13
9781504081252
Category
Religion
Pages
561
Language
English
Published
2022-12-06
Publisher
Open Road Media
Author
George B. Vetter

Description

This essential text on the psychology of religion studies the fundamental origins of human spirituality. In Magic and Religion, psychologist George B. Vetter approaches magico-religious behavior as a universal human phenomenon. He examines the various wide-ranging theories regarding the psychology of religion before calling for a more scientifically rigorous approach to the subject. Putting forth his own provocative and enlightening thesis, Vetter argues that magic and religion are predictable behavior patterns developed in situations that are uncontrollable, yet of momentous importance to the individual or collective. First published in 1958, Magic and Religion was a significant contribution to the psychology and sociology of religion. Hailed by some as an essential text on the subject, it was denounced by others as heresy, in part because of its frank criticism of clerical celibacy and its early advocacy for abortion rights.

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