A DYNAMIC PSYCHOLOGY OF RELIGION

by Paul Pruyser ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 5, 1968

Convinced that the field of the psychology of religion for some years has been moving into a cul de sac, Dr. Pruyser, of the staff of the Menninger Clinic, undertakes a new approach to the subject. Rather than organize his study on the basis of various religious phenomena--conversion, prayer, etc.--he uses normative and clinical categories drawn from dynamic psychology to assess theological propositions and religious forms of behavior. Perception, intellection, linguistic functions, emotional processes, interpersonal relations, and other categories thus are made to serve as the organizing instruments for a wide variety of observations on religious experience. The resultant book may set a precedent for a new style of writing about the interrelations of psychology and theology. Dr. Pruyser draws from a rich store of resources, ranging from psychological erudition through theological and Biblical writings to literary work--such as the poetry of Emily Dickinson, and current books--such as the diary of John XXIII. The outcome is a fully informed, abundantly illuminated, and readable volume. It will be welcomed by students of the field, clergy, and serious lay readers.

Pub Date: June 5, 1968

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harper & Row

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 1968

Categories: NONFICTION