the belief that there is some continued existence for those who have physically died

the inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person's decisions

something a person believes to be true so strongly that it doesn't matter whether it is or not

basic human impulses and desires everyone is born with, such as to eat

deep human needs and desires which religion can satisfy

Possible psychological explanations for religion

Religious education

In this unit there is a choice. Through a social science lens, pupils consider how psychologists analyse the phenomenon of religion. Or they may study the flowering of philosophy at the time of the Enlightenment through a depth study of Hobbes and Rousseau and their ideas of religion and society.

Psychology of religion or Religion and political philosophy

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

What term means the inner sense of right or wrong that guides a person's decisions? 

that God gave humans consciences to behave well

that humans have evolved a conscience to control their instincts

that having a conscience has helped human societies to progress 

What does Freud say about the human conscience? 

a young girl who believes she will win a race 

a young boy who believes he will marry a princess

a young girl who believes she will marry a prince

a young boy who believes he will climb a mountain  

What example did Freud give of what an 'illusion' is? 

Which of these are examples of how religion can be wish fulfilment? 

Which of the following might a religious person say is evidence supporting their beliefs? 

In Islam, Allah is neither male or female. 

In Christianity, God is often seen as God the Father.

In many Pagan religions, the higher power is Mother Earth.

Which of the following arguments could be used to challenge Freud's view that religions always involve a 'father figure'?

Which of these religious leaders do Christians believe was God on Earth in human form? 

Which of these terms most relate to religious beliefs about life after death? 

Which of the following is often referred to as the part of a person responsible for thoughts, memories and emotions?

What subject investigates the mind and human behaviours? 

Evidence is an opinion that someone has on a matter.

Evidence is a prediction that someone makes about the future.

Evidence is a piece of information or a fact that supports a claim.

Which statement explains the term 'evidence' the most accurately? 

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Possible psychological explanations for religion

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.