James's View On The Religious Experience

James’ initial view on the religious experience was skeptical. James' primary goal in his second lecture was to attempt to define religion, he focuses on the intense religious experiences of those who think they are in touch with the divine in order to define religion. James’s method of studying religion is introduced as two separate entities; divided between institutional religion and personal religion. Institutional religion referring to the socio-culturally influential religious groups and organizations. Personal religion is defined as a form religious purity, suggesting that religious experiences can emerge from various experiences and doesn't require great religious significance. James understands the complexity of the subject of his research, clearly states that his focus is not to determining the essence of religion as it is impossible to reduce religion to a single trait. Interestingly, James decides to ignore the institutional aspects of religion, taking preferable interest in religious feelings and impulses rather than religious institutions. “Religious awe is the same organic thrill which we feel in a forest at twilight, or in a mountain gorge; only this time it comes over us at the thought of our supernatural relations" (27). By concentrating on personal religion, James defines religion to consist of “the feelings, acts, and

James’ studying the contrast of the abnormal and normal draws reference to the acting nature of the notions of religious genius and psychological abnormality. Religious geniuses are viewed as being unstable though, those who exhibit higher intellect along with psychopathic tendencies tend to show characteristics of genius. Prophets often exemplify several psychopathic tendencies, the perceived ability to communicate with the divine is such an outstanding testimony that some would diagnose as mental