Neurology and Religion

Description

This innovative book examines what can be learnt about the brain mechanisms underlying religious belief and practice from studying people with neurological disorders, such as stroke, epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. Using a clinical case study approach, the book analyses the interaction of social influences, religious upbringing and neurological disorders on lived religious experience in a number of different religions. The interdisciplinary contributors to the book ensure a variety of perspectives to help understand how the religious life is affected when different cognitive functions are impaired; how faith modifies the effects of neurological disorders; and how awareness of faith practices may assist in the treatment of these conditions.

Alasdair Coles is is Professor of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University of Cambridge; Honorary Consultant Neurologist, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; and an ordained priest in the Diocese of Ely, Church of England. Joanna Collicutt is Karl Jaspers Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon and a Supernumerary Fellow of Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford. She is a clinical neuropsychologist and Anglican priest and was for many years head of the Oxfordshire neuropsychological rehabilitation service.

'It is difficult to overstate the timeliness and importance of this book ...' Emeritus Malcolm Jeeves, Science & Christian Belief