Psychology as Religion The Cult of Self-Worship by Paul C. Vitz
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Psychology as Religion: The Cult of Self-Worship by Paul C. Vitz
Summary
Is psychology a science or a form of religion? In his book, Paul C. Vitz suggests that psychology is increasingly replacing religion in schools and churches.
Key Concepts
- Biblical counseling
- Christian counseling
- Psychology
Exploring Psychology and Religion
Everywhere you turn, people seem to have opinions about mental health. From media personalities to everyday conversations, everyone seems to have a perspective on the latest psychological trends. My introduction to psychology came during my time in the United States Air Force in 1970. Non-Commissioned Officers were expected to counsel their subordinates, with training covering non-directive and eclectic counseling techniques, heavily featuring Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Notably, discussions of religion were discouraged in favor of psychological methods.
In "Psychology as Religion," Paul Vitz attempts to unveil psychology as a form of religion. He begins with a historical overview of modern psychology’s founders and their theories. Though initially dry, the narrative becomes engaging as it discusses figures like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, whom I studied extensively in the military. Vitz also highlights psychologists like Carl Jung, Erich Fromm, and Rollo May as key contributors.
The Concept of Self-Esteem
Vitz delves into the concept of self-esteem, which he sees as central to the selfism movement. Today, it seems self-esteem is often blamed for many societal issues. Despite its prevalence, Vitz argues that self-esteem lacks clear intellectual origins, a surprising claim given its influence on academia and counseling practices.
According to Vitz, self-esteem is an emotional response, not a causative factor. It reflects our actions and interactions with others. High self-esteem, much like happiness, is desirable but should result from doing good deeds or achieving something. Pursuing self-esteem often leads people to prioritize happiness over personal holiness.
Critique of Selfism
Vitz argues that selfism is detrimental, both scientifically and philosophically. The limited clinical evidence supporting selfism is based on empirical observations that fail rigorous scientific scrutiny. He identifies flaws throughout the scientific process and philosophical contradictions, even pointing out misrepresentations. Vitz believes that this misguided philosophy contributes to family breakdowns and promotes a victim mentality.
Values clarification in schools starts with the assumption of inherent human goodness. Vitz claims that without moral guidance from responsible adults, children absorb values from less credible sources. This results in a culture where blame is shifted onto others.
A Christian Perspective
Vitz dedicates three chapters to a Christian critique of humanistic self-theories, criticizing the education system’s role in fostering selfism. He credits Abraham Maslow’s theories as significant influences on the New Age movement. Vitz weaves his Christian analysis into a historical narrative, examining its societal impact. Although he uses few biblical references, he illustrates how selfism affects teachings on depression, idolatry, and suffering. He concludes by observing, "never have so many people been so self-conscious, ... the self has become an object to itself."
Conclusion
Vitz uses a cerebral approach to argue that self-worship is akin to religion. While not providing specific tools for biblical counseling, he offers a rich argument against the exclusion of religion in public education. The irony he leaves readers with is not whether to teach religion in schools, but rather which one: selfism or Christianity?
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