The Future of an Illusion - Sigmund Freud - Dover Thrift Editions

The Future of an Illusion by Sigmund Freud presents his psychoanalytic approach to religion. This Dover Thrift Editions paperback is published by Dover Publications Inc.

Key details

• Author: Sigmund Freud
• Series: Dover Thrift Editions
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 64
• Publisher: Dover Publications Inc
• ISBN: 9780486851075

Synopsis

In The Future of an Illusion, Freud sets out a sustained critique of religion through the lens of psychoanalysis, drawing together a long-running line of thought. He considers human nature and religion’s place within society, arguing that destructive instincts must be held in check if civilisation is to remain orderly.

Religion is described as a system of false beliefs rooted in human wishes, shaped around a God-like father figure and sustained by the need for security, independence and incentives for good behaviour. Setting religion against science, Freud concludes that civilisation’s renewal depends on new ways of understanding existence, driven by scientific ideas.

Rackhams Reference : PKHXD21UWE