Critical Reflections on Freudian Theory of Religion

Abstract

This study is an attempt to examine critically the views of Sigmund Freud on religion, and the socio–cultural milieu in which his thoughts germinated. What is the relevance of Freudian psychology of religion to contemporary scholarship? The study discovered that while the views of Freud on religion may not be altogether correct, his ideas on human nature are relevant to conservative religious thought. Freud was neither an adherent nor a student of religion, but his view on religion has been a subject of debate for many years. The study supports any effort(s) to edit and modify Freudian views on religion to make it more relevant for theistic purposes. We shall compare and contrast contemporary research findings in the social-scientific study of religion with the hypothetical formulation of Freud.

Key words: Freudian theory of religion; Sigmund Freud and religion;