Foster, Lawrence, Ph.D.: "The Psychology of Religious Genius: Joseph Smith and the Origins of New Religious Movements"

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Cultic Studies Review, Vol. 6, No. 2, 2007

The Psychology of Religious Genius: Joseph Smith and the Origins of New Religious Movements

Abstract

The nature of genius—especially religious genius—is an elusive and controversial topic. This essay focuses on one particularly well-documented case of religious genius—that of Mormon prophet Joseph Smith. The article presents some general observations on the nature of great religious creativity and prophetic leadership, offers a new hypothesis about one possible element in Joseph Smith's psychology that might help explain some of his most puzzling and disturbing actions, and discusses issues that may help us understand the psychological dynamics of other great prophets and foundational religious figures throughout history.

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Other contributions by author(s)

Conference 2004 GA: Events Overview
Foster, Lawrence - profile
Foster, Lawrence, Ph.D.: "The Psychology of Religious Genius: Joseph Smith and the Origins of New Religious Movements" - abstract
Foster, Lawrence: "The Psychology of Prophetic Charisma: New Approaches to Understanding Joseph Smith and the Development of Charismatic Leadership" - abstract

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