This book articulates a broad range of theoretical viewpoints, both classical and contemporary, in the field of the psychology of religion. Chapters One through Eight are overviews of such 'classical' theorists as William James, Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, Gordon Allport, Abraham Maslow, Alan Watts, Erich Fromm, and Viktor Frankl. Chapters Nine through Twelve consider subsequent developments in the field, e.g., the views of object relations theorists on the God-image; empirical research on the scaling of religiousness; and modern consciousness research. Chapters Ten through Twelve are new to this edition and comprise an eclectic overview of the feminist psychology of religion, recent developments in the intersection of neuroscience and religion, and the evolutionary psychology of religion. Both wide-ranging and current, therefore, this book offers illuminating and in-depth coverage of major theorists and approaches. While its breadth makes it an excellent place to begin an exploration of the psychology of religion, its depth and detail provide the opportunity for a serious and rewarding immersion in the field.

Can psychology explain religious behavior? This book explores the thinking of eight pioneers of religious psychology, including Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Fuller presents the theories of these seminal figures in a clear, straightforward way, and also examines the limits of psychological explanations of religion. He concludes the book by exploring the contributions to religion by some prominent recent figures in psychology such as Ana-Maria Rizzuto, Paul W. Pruyser, and Bernard Spilka. Praise for the latest edition of Psychology and Religion: "Professor Fuller has made a valuable contribution to students of psychology and religion. He has brought together in a single volume eight of the most important thinkers in their field. By presenting the views of these seminal figures in a cogent, straightforward manner and with scholarly faithfulness to their ideas, Fuller has eased the task of exploring an extremely challenging area. He is to be commended for his impressive effort." -Steven M. Rosen, The College of Staten Island