Psychology, Philosophy and religion?

Question

What is the difference between psychology, philosophy and religion? Do you think that psychology is like astrology on the middle ages (that was even taught at Universities)

Thank you

Answer 1

Hoo boy! I'm constantly amazed at how complex "simple" questions can be. But I'll try to answer.

Psychology tends to focus on the individual (though there is plenty of room for social and statistical study) while philosophy tends to focus on abstract concepts like existentialism, with concomitant relation to individuals. Religion has lots of faith-based concepts, some of which overlap with psychology (sin/guilt) and philosopy (good versus evil)

If we were in the middle ages when astrology was more-or-less accepted as "science," we'd not have the technical knowledge that it's less than valid. Psychology today is accepted as "social science," with both accepted and controversial views. But so is chemistry and astronomy and botany, all "accepted" fields of study. So I guess I'd have to answer your latter question with "Yes, psychology is today like astrology was in the middle ages."

Answer 2

Psychology is the study of human behavior and mind and their interrelations. Philosophy is different in that it explores philosophical theories and puts forward conflicts like those of Aristotle, Socrates, etc. Religion isn't study in itself but once you start exploring it you may find yourself reading religious literature. Religion is more practice than research while the former two are sound scholarly entities.
Nope I don't think Psychology is like Astrology. Astrology is authentic and beneficial but unlike Psychology it does not help people change behaviors or responses. Likewise Psychology does not predict the future. It just predicts people's behaviors under certain circusmtances given their state of mind then.

Answer 3

On first encountering Buddhist teachings many Westerners ask your self even though if or no longer they are definitely coping with a philosophy or a sort of utilized psychology, quite than a faith. somewhat Buddhism has reliable aspects of the two philosophy and psychology.