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Theory Of Religion - Online Term Paper

Theory Of Religion

Many different scientists, philosophers, and thinkers of all kinds through out the centuries have pondered the question, "Where do we come from?" and "Why do we believe in religion?." Most have suggested that religion is a way for people to feel more secure in the universe and be at ease with the concepts of creation. Yet for some like William R. James (1842-1910) and Sigmund Freud (1856-1939), that theory about peoples beliefs was not enough. Freud theorized that a persons belief in a god or gods came from an adults image of a powerful youth and the experiences with his/her parents. These feelings of fear and security were the basis of a persons attempt to deal with the unknown. Based on ...

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has on the body. James saw religion as growing out of psychological need. He viewed religion as a persons positive way of fulfilling needs and its positive effects of an individuals life. He believed that religion gave a "new zest" on a persons life, and "an assurance of safety", which would eventually lead to a harmonious relation with the universe." Although Freud and James didn't have exactly the same beliefs on religion because of their different educations, both men's theory had similar meaning in that religion made people have inner peace as they go through life.
Another , one of a completely different view of Freud and James, is from James George Frazer. He believed that religion, with its ceremonies, prayer, and spiritual beings, was much like a sorcerer and his magic. Neither doubts that the same cause will always produce the same effect with the performance of the proper ceremony accompanied by the appropriate spell. Frazer believes that there is no higher power than ...

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Theory Of Religion. (2005, December 12). Retrieved January 11, 2026, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Theory-Of-Religion/37890

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"Theory Of Religion." Essayworld.com. December 12, 2005. Accessed January 11, 2026. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Theory-Of-Religion/37890.

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PAPER DETAILS

Added: 12/12/2005 10:15:43 AM
Category: Religion
Type: Premium Paper
Words: 744
Pages: 3

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