PSY 216 Psychology of Religion
Religion is one of the most powerful forces driving individual experience and the larger society and world. This course will explore the psychology underpinning this force. Beginning with introductions to classic writings by William James, Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and Abraham Maslow, the course will explore why people become committed to religious beliefs and the ways in which religious institutions interact with individuals and groups. The course will examine religious fanaticism and terrorism through empirical, phenomenological and sociological approaches.