Psychology of Religion

Abstract

This course is a survey of psychological theory and research investigating religious beliefs, experiences, and practices. We will focus on those parts of the religious life that can be described and understood from a psychological perspective. We will attempt to explore the psychology of universal religion, although we will not comprehensively survey the beliefs and practices of different religious traditions. Also, we will not be attempting to prove or disprove religious claims. Instead, our main focus will be on the psychological elements of religious life.