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The study aims to explore Paul Tillich's contributions to the development of existential psychology and its historical context.

January 1, 2024Open Access

Paul Tillich and the Genesis of Existential Psychology

Key Points

The study aims to explore Paul Tillich's contributions to the development of existential psychology and its historical context.
Conducts a historical overview of Paul Tillich's background and influences.
Examines his interactions with prominent figures in psychology and philosophy.
Analyzes key works by Tillich and Rollo May to suggest a collective reading.
Demonstrates Tillich's influence on Rollo May and the framework of existential psychology.
Highlights connections between Tillich’s and May’s contributions to understanding anxiety and creativity.
Identifies potential research avenues in the intersections of existential psychology, gerontology, and theology.

Abstract

This study traces back the intellectual journey of Paul Tillich while focusing on his central role in the emergence of existential psychology. It starts with a historical overview of Tillich's German roots and discusses his interactions with key figures such as Manheim, Horkheimer, Adorno, and Heidegger, and his move to the US, where he influenced Rollo May and the development of existentialist psychology. The core of the present study explores Tillich's work “The Courage to Be” and juxtaposes it with May's works “The Meaning of Anxiety” and “The Courage to Create”, suggesting a collective reading. This part also highlights Tillich's influence on figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. The conclusion outlines possible avenues of research in existential psychology, gerontology, and the interplay between theology and psychology.

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