Freud - AO2

Strength of Freud’s theory of religion?

It explains religion’s emotional appeal and persistence without appealing to divine truth.

Why is Freud’s theory criticised as unscientific?

It is unfalsifiable and based on speculative interpretation rather than empirical evidence.

Why is Freud accused of reductionism?

He reduces all religion to psychological causes, ignoring social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.

How might believers respond to Freud?

That psychological explanations do not disprove the existence of God.

How does Jung challenge Freud?

Jung saw religion as psychologically meaningful and potentially healthy, not merely illusory.

Why might Freud’s own atheism weaken his argument?

His conclusions may reflect personal bias rather than objective analysis.

How does Freud’s theory support atheism?

If God is a psychological projection, belief lacks objective truth.

Key weakness of Freud’s overall argument?

Explaining belief does not equal disproving belief.

One-sentence exam summary of Freud on religion?

Freud argued religion is an illusion created by unconscious psychological needs rooted in childhood dependency.