Paradoxes in psychology resonating in its empirical research of religion

Abstract As a scientific enterprise, the psychology of religion is vitally dependent on developments in general, sharing its strengths as well weaknesses. The article discusses being haunted by number paradoxes that resonate psychological research well. prominent specimen such empirical religion, oeuvre R. W. Hood, well-known contemporary US contributor to field, selected. Another stage long-standing cheerful dialogue with points out some remarkable parallels oeuvres Hall and James, founding fathers psychology. While critically engaging core issues tendencies Hood’s publications, explains sense which his struggle find balance regard three paradoxical will be major task for field during next few decades 21st century.