Genealogy of Religion

Exploring the Origins, History and Future of Religion

Entries Tagged as 'helplessness'

Has the Future of Our Illusion Arrived?

October 15th, 2010 · 1 Comment · Atheism, Cognition, Emotions

Anyone studying religion will sooner or later read Sigmund Freud’s classic, The Future of an Illusion (1927).  I was engaged in my fifth reading today and came across this passage:
Thus I must contradict you when you go on to argue that men are completely unable to do without the consolation of the religious illusion, that [...]

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African Witchcraft & American Religion

August 31st, 2010 · 1 Comment · Classifications, Definitions, Ritual

Over at Live Science, Benjamin Radford stereotypically reports — with no irony and little thought — that “Belief in Witchcraft Widespread in Africa” is prevalent:
A new Gallup poll found that belief in magic is widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, with over half of respondents saying they personally believe in witchcraft. Studies in 18 countries show belief [...]

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