Religion as a Phenomenon from a Psychological Perspective: Why Did Humanity Create Faith?

1. Religion as a Phenomenon from a Psychological Perspective: Why Did Humanity Create Faith?

Nikita Adagamov

2. Introduction to the Topic

Topic: Religion as a Phenomenon from a Psychological
Perspective: Why Did Humanity Create Faith?
Main Idea: Religion was created to restore the feeling of oneness
and connection with the world that fades as we grow.
Importance: Provides a new perspective on why religion was
created, offering insight into human psychology and existential
needs.

3. Theories Supporting the Argument

Lacan’s Mirror
Stage Theory:
1)Babies, between 6-18
months, first see their
reflection.
2)Before this, they feel
connected to
everything around
them.
3)Recognizing
themselves leads to a
sense of separation and
loneliness.
Fromm’s Escape
from Freedom:
1)Religion is a response
to existential anxiety
and loneliness caused
by modern society's
complexities.
2)Modern people feel
isolated due to
increased freedom.

4. Supporting Medical Research

Lucchetti et al.
(2021):
1)Study of 16,000
people.
2)Religiousness and
spirituality protect
against depression,
anxiety, and suicidal
thoughts.
Koenig (2012):
1)Review of 3,000+
studies.
2)Strong link between
religious involvement
and lower rates of
depression, substance
abuse, and suicide.

5. Counterarguments

Freud (1927): Religion is a way to cope with the fear of death
and nature.
Counter: Studies show religion provides emotional support, not
just a coping mechanism.
Jung: Religion connects people with the unconscious through
symbols.
Counter: Religion also improves emotional health and social
connection, not just inner reflection.
Baudrillard: Modern religion is meaningless, just empty symbols.
Counter: Religion provides real emotional support and mental health
benefits, especially during tough times.

6. Conclusion

Main Argument: Religion helps people reconnect with the
world and experience oneness, especially as they face feelings of
separation and loneliness.
Evidence: Lacan, Fromm, and medical research support the idea
that religion plays a key role in addressing existential anxiety
and improving mental health.
Final Thought: Despite different views, evidence shows religion offers
real emotional support and restores a sense of connection.