Paul J. Tillich : religion and psychotherapy

Year Published: 1961

Creator: National Educational Television Indiana University Audio-Visual Center

Format: 16mm

Description: This program provides the viewer with some highly interesting comparisons between psychology – in particular, Freudian psychology – and Tillich’s interpretation of man’s nature. The major point developed is the difference between Freud’s and Tillich’s definitions of anxiety. Freud, says Tillich, believed that anxiety can be eradicated, whereas I (Tillich) believe anxiety is an inescapable part of man’s nature. Although psychoanalysis is helpful to a man seeking to understand his own personality, it does not help him to come closer to an understanding of the nature of God. This latter is rather the province of religion, and man’s understanding of God is a direct result of his having faith. As the conversations ends, Dr. Tillich explains that many mental illnesses are caused by uncertainty about the meaning of life. To understand one’s existence, he says, one must have faith. This, in turn, is achieved by constant inquiry, doubt and anxiety about one’s basic beliefs.

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