The Psychology of Religion : A Social Force

The psychology of religion is an inherently exciting topic, yet most textbooks struggle to convey the vitality and significance of this field to students. Designed for undergraduate courses, this textbook uses poignant stories drawn from literature, history, and scientific case studies to provide a more effective entry point for students.

Many of the greatest minds in psychology have tried to unravel the mysteries, power, appeal, and consequences of religion. The task of understanding human behaviour will never be complete without the use of science and logic to examine the psychology of religion and spirituality. This undergraduate textbook provides an engaging and accessible tour of the field, drawing on historical, theoretical, and cutting-edge sources. It explores the origins and meaning of various forms of religious belief around the globe, with enhanced coverage of non-Christian religions, non-believers, and diverse populations. By focusing on the personal, medical, moral, social, and political consequences of religion, it explores how these findings can be applied in real-world scenarios. Students are supported by clear learning objectives, defined key concepts, varied end-of-chapter questions, further reading suggestions, and visual content, making this an invaluable resource for undergraduates in the psychology of religion and spirituality.