Paul C. Vitz (Spence: October 15, 1999), 200 pages.
Starting with Freud's "projection theory" of religion-that belief in God is merely a product of man's desire for security. Vitz argues that psychoanalysis actually provides a more satisfying explanation for atheism. Disappointment in one's earthly father, whether through death, absence, or mistreatment, frequently leads to a rejection of God. A biographical survey of influential atheists of the past four centuries shows that this "defective father hypothesis" provides a consistent explanation of the "intense atheism" of these thinkers. A survey of the leading intellectual defenders of Christianity over the
same period confirms the hypothesis, finding few defective fathers.
Professor Vitz concludes with an intriguing comparison of male and
female atheists and a consideration of other psychological factors that
can contribute to atheism. Professor Vitz does not argue that
atheism is psychologically determined. Each man, whatever his
experiences, ultimately chooses to accept God or reject him. Yet the
cavalier attribution of religious faith to irrational, psychological
needs is so prevalent that an exposition of the psychological factors
predisposing one to atheism is necessary. ~
Book Description
