Disciplining Freud on Religion — Perspectives from the Humanities and Sciences

"The contributions of these respected scholars representing the fields of religious studies, the natural and social sciences, and philosophy demonstrate that more than seventy years after his death, Freud's complex interpretation of religion continues to have considerable impact on our understanding of culture and the way we view ourselves as human beings. This important book establishes a unique and engaging interdisciplinary approach to the contemporary study of Freud `on religion." ---Kirk A. Bingaman, Fordham University

It is well known that, in formulating his general theoretical framework and views on religion, Freud drew on multiple disciplines within the natural and social sciences and the humanities. This edited collection adds to the continued multidisciplinary interest in Freud by focusing on his understanding and interpretation of---as well as his relationship to---religion. It "disciplines" Freud by situating his work on religion using the methodological interests and theoretical advances found in diverse disciplinary contexts. Scholars within the field of religious studies, Jewish studies, philosophy, and the natural sciences bring together their diverse voices to heighten the academic understanding of Freud on religion and establish closer, more direct interdisciplinary dialogue with regard to Freudian studies. This volume should appeal to a wide range of scholars, from upper-level undergraduate and graduate classes to those training in psychoanalysis.

Gregory Kaplan is the Anna Smith Fine Assistant Professor of Judaic Studies at Rice University.
William B. Parsons is associate professor of religious studies at Rice University.