Freud and the Problem of God

In this highly acclaimed book, one of the most prominent theologians in the world offers a theological and psychoanalytic assessment of Freud’s atheism and of its implications for current psychoanalytic practice. In the original section of the book, now entitled God–An Infantile Illusion?, Hans Kung traces Freud’s views on religion and religious longing, compares Jung’s and Adler’s attitudes toward religion, shows that Freud’s arguments against the existence of God are theologically unsound, and concludes with a frank and provocative discussion of what psychoanalysis may be able to teach the Christian Church. In a new section, Religion–The Final Taboo?, Kung points out that religions still plays a negligible role in the practice of psychoanalysis, despite its increasing importance in the lives of most people. Has religion replaced sex, Kung asks, as an integral facet of human experience ignored or repressed by the very profession that seeks to enlighten? Reviews of the first edition:

This should stand as one of Dr. Kung’s finest works. –Edmund Fuller, Wall Street Journal
A balanced, thorough, and very readable discussion of Freud’s critique of religion… A model of the clarity, honesty, and fairness we can always expect to find in Kung’s writings. -John F. Haught, America
An honest, sympathetic pro-and-con assessment of specific elements of Freud’s critique by a well-known German Catholic theologian, easily accessible to the interested layperson and valuable for both theologians and psychologists. –Library Journal
Kung carefully, sympathetically investigates Freud’s interpretations of religion, both within his clinical theories and personal history. -Lisa Mitchell, Los Angeles Times