Adieu to God

Religion clings to the supernatural for psychological comfort. In Adieu to God, Mick Powers provides a fair and balanced exploration of why this continues to be the case despite science's repeated disproval of supernatural forces. Rumors of the shortcomings and death of organized religion abound in modern society. However, even in the face of overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, organized religion continues to prosper. In Adieu to God, psychologist and atheist Mick Power examines this dichotomy from a psychological perspective. He argues that although religion provides certain social and psychological benefits, atheism provides a more fulfilling path to these objectives. In recent years, scientists have officially disproven the existence of gods and the supernatural. Yet, these beliefs persist because of the comfort and sense of understanding these ideas offer their followers. Power argues that these religious beliefs must be viewed through both a psychological and social lens. He uses examples from a variety of religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Scientology and Mormonism, to demonstrate how psychological principles explain key religious beliefs and phenomena. At the same time, he incorporates the latest research in psychology, sociology, anthropology, psychiatry and medicine to show the ways in which atheism supercedes the benefits of organized religion and can lead to a more fulfilling life. Thorough and balanced, Mick Power gives a complete look at the psychological implications of organized religion while also providing a convincing argument for atheism in today's world. Adieu to God examines atheism from a psychological perspective and reveals how religious phenomena and beliefs are psychological rather than supernatural in origin. Answers the psychological question of why, in the face of overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, do religions continue to prosper? Looks at atheism and religion using a fair and balanced approach based on the latest work in psychology, sociology, anthropology, psychiatry and medicine Acknowledges the many psychological benefits of religion while still questioning the validity of its supernatural belief systems and providing atheist alternatives to a fulfilling life