Workshop: Psychoanalysis and Orthodox Theology

3rd International Conference of Project SOW
November 29 - December 1, 2018
Athens | National Hellenic Research Foundation
Conference Day 3 | Saturday, December 1, 2018

For decades it seemed that polarization and suspicion were the reality that mutually shaped the relationship between psychoanalysis and Christianity. During our research, we came to realize an increasing interest of contemporary Orthodox Christian thinkers in psychoanalytic theory and its interpretation of human self and cultural values. Factors that facilitated such a proximity have been the new challenges that psychoanalysis faces now from neuroscience and technology, which urge it to become more modest and transactional. On the other side, contemporary Orthodox theology has formulated and put forward a relational spirituality promoting real selves and meaningful bond with others and God. Both developments seem to have brought closer the two domains and made them more susceptible to a creative dialogue. Under this perspective of a mutual convergence the workshop aims at answering questions, such as:
What can religion offer to psychoanalysis? Could religion help psychology and psychoanalysis by its understanding of the nature of persons and faith? Could theology assist psychoanalysis discover its own Christian roots and elements? Could hope and resilience inspired by faith facilitate psychoanalytic healing? What can psychoanalysis offer to religion? Could it offer a path to new approaches of morality that will take under consideration psychological integrity? Could it bring new light to religious experience and deepen the meaning of spirituality and the representation of God? Could help face the distortions of morbid religiosity (magic, fanaticism, fundamentalism, indifference), which are closely related to psychopathology and social dysfunction? Issues of theological anthropology are to be explored, such as the soul and its powers (functions), the distinction between psychological and spiritual development, body-mind problems and the psychosomatic unity of the human person, free will and desire, passions and addictive behaviors, emotional control, the meaning of diseases and health as well as the mystical experience, a reconsideration of sexuality etc. The workshop intends to trace areas of convergence and cooperation.

Scientific Coordinator: Rev. Vasileios Thermos
Organizing Committee: Rev. Vasileios Thermos | Dr Eudoxie Delli | Nikos Livanos

Видео Workshop: Psychoanalysis and Orthodox Theology канала Science & Orthodox Christianity