Authors:
- Blends historical context with current practices of demonology, exorcism
- Engages the concept of demonology, considering how alien possession becomes a contemporary form of demon possession
- Much like demon possession, it is a book of many voices residing in one body
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Table of contents (7 chapters)
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Front Matter
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Back Matter
About this book
This book is a psychological exploration of unusual minds, a religious exploration of demonological myth, and a philosophical exploration of the reaches of pragmatism. It uses topics such as hypnotism, mediumship, and mass possession to argue for a comprehensive understanding of the demonic that acknowledges not only the creativity which it encourages, but also the danger it can bring. Professor Ruetenik uses James’ religious pragmatism to evaluate the relevance of psychical research, and to explain common beliefs regarding demons, spirits, and other controlling personalities.
The conclusion of this interdisciplinary research is as alarming as it is fascinating: When exploring the demons of William James, we discover that ordinary personality cannot be clearly separated from what we consider the demonic.
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Authors and Affiliations
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Saint Ambrose University, Davenport, IA, USA
Tadd Ruetenik
About the author
Tadd Ruetenik is Professor of Philosophy at St. Ambrose University, USA.
Bibliographic Information
Book Title: The Demons of William James
Book Subtitle: Religious Pragmatism Explores Unusual Mental States
Authors: Tadd Ruetenik
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-91623-1
Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan Cham
eBook Packages: Religion and Philosophy, Philosophy and Religion (R0)
Copyright Information: The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s) 2018
Hardcover ISBN: 978-3-319-91622-4Published: 16 July 2018
Softcover ISBN: 978-3-030-06269-9Published: 12 January 2019
eBook ISBN: 978-3-319-91623-1Published: 04 July 2018
Edition Number: 1
Number of Pages: IX, 169
Topics: Pragmatism, Religion and Psychology, Religion and Society