The Future of an Illusion

In Chapter 9, Freud suggests that an “education to reality” could replace religious education in society (49), allowing for individuals to deal with their sense of helplessness through rationality instead of religious ideas. What would such an educational system look like? How would it differ from religious education? 

Throughout The Future of an Illusion, Freud presents the voice of an opponent, who argues for religion and objects to Freud’s argument. Why does Freud create such a figure? How does it help him better present his ideas?

Freud’s arguments about religion are specific to “present-day white Christian civilization” (20). Consider his arguments in relation to a religion besides Christianity, such as Islam, Buddhism, or Hinduism. Do Freud’s ideas about religion still apply? Why or why not?

At the core of Freud’s argument is the idea that religion is an illusion, meaning that it is “derived from human wishes” (31). Do you agree that religion is an illusion? 

Since Freud wrote The Future of an Illusion in 1927, atheism has become increasingly popular in societies around the world. Do you believe religion will continue to have a place in human societies in the future?

In what ways does religion help individuals deal with their sense of helplessness? 

Freud argues that civilization exists to repress individuals' aggressive and animalistic instincts. According to Freud, the result of this coercion is that it turns most individuals into “an enemy of civilization” (6). Do you agree with Freud’s assessment of the relation between civilization and the individual? Does civilization require coercion to function?

Why does Freud refer to religion as “the universal obsessional neurosis of humanity” (43)? How does religion compare with individual neuroses?