Mikhail Bakunin, Russian philosopher and revolutionary, wrote: "Religion is a mental disease that has infected humanity" (Bakunin, 1871).
Hyperlink to an article dedicated to source analysis
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First of all, we dedicate this article to Sister Albertine who abandoned her fiancé, who sacrificed her life for a story invented at the age of 23… Let us all pray together to her imaginary Lord that reason prevails and that she finds her mind again… Let us think of all that she will miss: the joys of a love life, of having children, of giving life… in favor of a life potentially marked by solitude, frustration, even depression, and which drives some sisters to suicide…
All this waste for an invented story, for a sect that has marked history with genocides: the Inquisition, the Crusades, the Black Code... Genocides, massacres, 300,000 women burned alive . And more recently, hundreds of thousands of children victims of sexual abuse covered up by this stinking sect that for decades hid sexual assaults against children (330,000 victims in France between 1950 and 2022)... The broken life of a young woman for an invented story: progress in the science of history teaches us that this "JESUS" is a mythical being who never existed historically... We provide you with an edifying text from an association dedicated to the fight against sectarian excesses at the end of this article which is edifying.µ
PLATEFORMEJAUNE understands itself as a proletarian revolutionary organization. It considers one of its historical missions to continue the fight of the founders of revolutionary socialism, Marx, Engels and Bakunin. It is for this reason that it is attentive to the work of researchers on the question of religion, a thousand-year-old poison that is the fatal weapon of the ruling classes to keep people in slavery by promising them a better future in the afterlife.
As we have written many times, we violently reject the vague concepts of “Islamophobia” and “Christianophobia” which conflate political, philosophical and scientific criticism of religions with racism and xenophobia, the hallmarks of the extreme right, and therefore hatred of Muslims and Christians. To gag criticism of religions is to stifle free thought. To confuse this criticism with the hateful speeches of the extreme right is to play into the hands of those who thrive on division and obscurantism.
Instead of hatred, let us feel empathy for Muslims and Christians. They are, like so many others, victims of sectarian influence, a scourge that ravages lives, just like drugs or capitalism. And then would it be acceptable to hate people suffering from psychological disorders: Indeed, many studies from the scientific community suggest that religion is a mental illness that requires psychiatric care.
But, of course, no reasonable person can hate suffering people who should benefit from care and support from health professionals.
In this issue, we are also pleased to confirm that the most renowned researchers affirm that there are more than serious doubts about the historicity of Jesus. In this September newsletter, we are delivering two in-depth articles that have occupied my entire Parisian vacation as a proletarian… The first article reviews the state of research on the historicity of Jesus, and the second the state of religion and its harmful nature on mental health.
Your devoted Jean wishes you a good read…
You can click on the underlined links to go directly to the articles.
2. Religion: A Mental Scourge? Cases of Suicides Among Religious Sisters: The Veil Is Lifted on a Taboo, Spiritual Distress Behind the Walls .
1. Essay on the theses questioning the historical existence of Jesus
The debate over the historicity of Jesus is complex and raises fundamental questions about how we interpret ancient sources. Although most scholars accept the existence of a historical Jesus, a growing number of scholars, including Richard Carrier, Robert M. Price, Earl Doherty, G. A. Wells, and Michel Onfray, argue that the available evidence is not sufficient to establish his existence .
1.1. Source problem
One of the major criticisms of the historicity of Jesus is the quality and nature of the sources that have come down to us. Richard Carrier in his book On the Historicity of Jesus: Why We May Have Doubts (2014) points out that "the evidence for the existence of Jesus is remarkably weak and insufficient to draw conclusions" (Carrier, 2014, p. 1). This weakness of the sources is based on several elements:
Temporality of the documents : The Gospels were written decades after Jesus' supposed death, raising doubts about their reliability. Carrier mentions that "the oldest Greek manuscripts of the Gospels date from several centuries after Jesus' supposed life" (Carrier, 2014, p. 23).
Theological Nature of the Texts : Robert M. Price, in Deconstructing Jesus (2000), states that "the Gospels do not function as reliable historical documents, but rather as mythological narratives" (Price, 2000, p. 15). This calls into question their objectivity as historical testimonies.
1.2. Absence of contemporary sources
Another crucial point is the absence of contemporary evidence of the existence of Jesus. G. A. Wells, in his book Did Jesus Exist? (1986), notes that "there is no non-Christian reference to Jesus during the first century" (Wells, 1986, p. 102). This absence is striking when one considers that other figures of the time, such as Pontius Pilate, are largely documented by contemporary sources. The almost total silence surrounding Jesus during his time, coupled with the absence of mentions in the works of historians such as Tacitus or Josephus, raises serious questions.
1.3. Mythological elements in the story of Jesus
Critics of the historicity of Jesus also point to similarities between the Gospel accounts and earlier myths. Earl Doherty, in The Jesus Puzzle: Did the Mythic Christ Exist? (1999), argues that "the weight of evidence suggests that Jesus, as a historical figure, is fundamentally a mythological creation" (Doherty, 1999, p. 56). The commonalities between Jesus and other mythological figures, such as virgin births or resurrections, illustrate what some scholars see as a process of mythic elevation of the character.
1.4. Considerations on the historical context and the critique of institutionalization
Michel Onfray , in Le christianisme hédoniste (2008), discusses the influence of ancient myths on the formation of Christian beliefs : "Jesus Christ is the fruit of a long process of accumulation and rewriting of ancient myths" (Onfray, 2008, p. 102). This also raises questions about the political and religious motivations behind the construction of this character, suggesting that religious institutions may have had an interest in shaping a historical figure to legitimize their power.
1.5. Conclusion
In an academic setting, it is imperative to critically examine the sources on which the acceptance of the historicity of Jesus is based. The arguments of scholars such as Carrier, Price, Doherty, Wells, and Onfray highlight the weaknesses of the available evidence and offer an alternative perspective based on critical and historical principles. Consequently, even if the majority of scholars do not adhere to their theses, it is essential to recognize and explore the debates that shape the understanding of history. The Catholic Church and its intellectuals in its pay maintain that the majority of historians do not follow these authors. Yet when one speaks of the " majority of scholars " who do not adhere to the thesis of the non-historicity of Jesus, it is difficult to find precise sources in quantity and quality that support this assertion . Indeed, there is no survey or systematic study that has questioned all scholars in the field of the history of Christianity or theology to find out their opinion on the question . The studies conducted so far are fragmentary and lack universal and valid scope. They are often limited to specific groups of researchers or to particular fields of study, which makes it difficult to generalize their results. Furthermore, it is important to note that not everyone has the level of expertise of a Robert Price , who has devoted his entire career to the study of theology and biblical criticism. Indeed, the studies conducted so far show that the researchers who have participated in these surveys do not all have the same level of competence or expertise in the field of theology and biblical criticism. It is therefore important to take these limitations into account when referring to the "majority of researchers" who do not adhere to the thesis of the non-historicity of Jesus, because these studies have no scientific value. The idea therefore that a majority of researchers would support the historicity of Jesus is an illusion maintained by biased studies without scientific basis. The thesis of non-historicity therefore remains perfectly valid.
1.6. Some academic references on the historicity of JESUS
1.6.1.Richard Carrier (American historian and philosopher, specialist in the history of Christianity)
Book: On the Historicity of Jesus: Why We May Have Doubts (2014)
Quote: “The evidence for the existence of Jesus is remarkably weak and insufficient to draw any conclusions. It cannot be said that we know that he existed.”
1.6.2. Robert M. Price
Robert M. Price is an American theologian and biblical scholar who specializes in biblical criticism and the study of the Bible. He is also a specialist in the history of Christianity and Judaism. He can be considered the world's, global expert on this field!
Biography
Robert M. Price was born in 1954 in the United States. He received his undergraduate degree in Philosophy and Theology from Gordon-Conwell University in 1978. He then continued his studies to obtain a Master of Theology degree from Drew University in 1981. Price received his Doctor of Theology degree from Drew University in 1991.
Academic career
Price has taught at several institutions, including Drew University, Montclair State University School of Theology, and Johnson University. He is currently an independent scholar and writer, devoting his time to biblical study and criticism.
Notable work:
One of his most famous works is Deconstructing Jesus (2000) - In this book, Price examines biblical sources and Christian traditions to show that the historical Jesus is a mythical construct. He argues that the evidence for Jesus' existence is non-existent and that it comes largely from theological concerns rather than historical contexts.
The quote provided is: “The historical Jesus is a mythical construct, and the evidence for his existence is nonexistent, coming largely from theological concerns rather than historical context.” This quote perfectly sums up Price's thesis in his book Deconstructing Jesus .
Robert M. Price is a prolific author who has written numerous books and articles on biblical criticism, the history of Christianity, and Judaism.
1.6.3. Earl Doherty (Canadian historian and writer, specialist in the history of Christianity)
Book: The Jesus Puzzle: Did the Mythical Christ Exist? (1999)
Quote: “The weight of evidence suggests that Jesus, as a historical figure, is fundamentally a mythological creation rather than a historical individual.”
1.6.4. GA Wells (British philosopher and historian, specialist in the history of philosophy and theology)
Book: Did Jesus Exist? (1986)
Quote: “The Gospels do not function as reliable historical documents, but rather as mythological narratives that bear no resemblance to true history.”
1.6.5. Michel Onfray (French philosopher and writer, specialist in the history of philosophy and literature)
Book: Hedonistic Christianity (2008)
Quote: “Jesus Christ, this composite character, this mythological entity, is the fruit of a long process of accumulation and rewriting of ancient myths. There is no contemporary evidence of his existence.”
1.6.6 .Thomas L. Brodie (American theologian and biblical scholar, specialist in biblical criticism)
Book: Beyond the Quest for the Historical Jesus: Memoir of a Discovery (2004)
Quote: “The Gospel accounts, as literary constructs, cannot be taken literally and do not support the idea of a historical Jesus.”
1.6.7. Raphael Lataster (Australian historian and writer, specialist in the history of Christianity)
Book: Jesus Did Not Exist: A Debate Among Atheists (2015)
Quote: “The lack of tangible contemporary evidence and the mythological nature of the Gospel accounts argue against the idea of a historical Jesus.”
1.6.8. MICHAEL BAKOUNIN'S "COMM'BACK"...
1. Religion is a mental illness : "Religion is a mental illness, which has afflicted society for centuries." (God and the State, 1882, chap. 2)
2. Priests are parasites : "Priests are the most dangerous parasites in society, living off the credulity of the people, exploiting their good faith, piety and superstition." (God and the State, 1882, chap. 3)
3. Faith is alienation : "Faith is the alienation of man, it is the negation of his freedom, his reason, his personality." (God and the State, 1882, chap. 2)
4. Churches are instruments of domination : "Churches are instruments of domination, means of government, machines for enslaving peoples." (God and the State, 1882, chap. 3)
5. Religion is an escape from responsibility : "Religion is an escape from responsibility, an excuse for not acting, for not thinking, for not being free." (God and the State, 1882, chap. 2)
Source: Bakunin, M. (1882). God and the State. Paris: PV Stock.
2. Religion: A Mental Scourge? Cases of Suicides Among Religious Sisters: The Veil Is Lifted on a Taboo, Spiritual Distress Behind the Walls
The question of whether the
Whether religion is a mental illness is a topic of debate and controversy in the scientific community. However, some studies suggest that religion can be considered a form of mental illness. In this article, we will look at five studies that support this idea and recall Mikhail Bakunin's quote, who called religion a mental illness.
2.1. Religion: a form of unreason
According to Richard Dawkins , author of " The God Delusion," belief in God is a form of unreason: "Religion is a form of unreason, a form of madness that can lead to violent and irrational behavior" (Dawkins, 2006).
Similarly, Sam Harris, author of " The End of Faith," argues that religion is a form of insanity that can lead to violent and irrational behavior: "Religion is a form of insanity that can lead to violent and irrational behavior" (Harris, 2004).
2.2. Religion and psychopathology
Gregory W. Lester, author of " Religion and Psychopathology," argues that some forms of religiosity may be linked to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety: "People who are highly religious may be more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than people who are not religious" (Lester, 2002).
2.3. Religion and mental health
Michael Argyle , author of " The Psychology of Religion," examines the links between religion and mental health and suggests that some forms of religiosity may be beneficial for mental health: "Religion can have positive effects on mental health, such as reducing stress and improving self-esteem" (Argyle, 2000).
2.4. Religion and paraphrenia
Paraphrenia is a psychiatric disorder characterized by delusional beliefs and hallucinations. According to the study by T. Kolb et al. (2013), paraphrenia can be considered a form of mental illness related to religion: "Paraphrenia is a form of mental illness that can be related to religion, especially in people who are very religious" (Kolb et al., 2013). Paraphrenia is defined as a psychiatric disorder characterized by delusional beliefs and hallucinations. According to the study by J.-P. Boulanger et al. (2009), paraphrenia can be treated with medication and cognitive therapies: " Paraphrenia can be treated with medication and cognitive therapies, but it is important to take into account the religious beliefs and practices of the patients" (Boulanger et al., 2009).
2.5. Cases of suicide
Let us recall the cases of suicides of Catholic nuns in France, which were revealed by press articles. According to an article in "Le Monde" (2019), a Catholic nun committed suicide in her convent due to mental health problems: " The nun committed suicide in her convent due to mental health problems that had not been treated" (Le Monde, 2019).
Similarly, an article in " La Croix" (2020) reveals that the Catholic Church covered up cases of pedophile priests for decades: " The Catholic Church covered up cases of pedophile priests for decades, which allowed these priests to continue to abuse children" (La Croix, 2020).
2.6. Conclusion
In conclusion, the studies cited in this article suggest that religion can be considered a form of mental illness. The cases of suicides of Catholic nuns in France and the revelations about cases of pedophile priests show that the Catholic Church has covered up mental health problems and sexual abuse within its ranks for decades. It is important to take into account the religious beliefs and practices of patients in the treatment of mental health.
Contemporary studies in psychiatry that suggest that religion is a mental illness? Well, Bakunin, a historical figure of revolutionary socialism, had already written it in 1882 in "God and the State": "Religion is a mental illness, which has afflicted society for centuries." (chap. 2). It seems that scientists have taken a century and a half to catch up with the Russian anarchist. We knew that revolutionaries were visionaries, but this is just ridiculous!
References:
Dawkins, R. (2006). The God Delusion. Bantam Press.
Harris, S. (2004). The End of Faith. WW Norton & Company.
Lester, G. W. (2002). Religion and Psychopathology. Springer.
Argyle, M. (2000). The Psychology of Religion. Routledge.
Kolb, T., et al. (2013). Paraphrenia and religion. Journal of Psychiatry, 104(2), 147-155.
Boulanger, J.-P., et al. (2009). Paraphrenia: treatment and management. Journal of psychiatry, 100(1), 35-43.
Le Monde (2019). A Catholic nun commits suicide in her convent.
La Croix (2020). The Catholic Church covered up cases of pedophile priests for decades.
3. AVREF denounces abuses within the Saint Jean Community in a damning "Black Book"
AVREF (Aid to Victims of Abuses in Religious Movements in Europe and Their Families), an association that has been involved in the fight against abuse within religious organizations for over two decades, has published a new damning report entitled " The Black Book of the Saint John Community". This document, the result of a long investigation and numerous testimonies, highlights the systematic, spiritual and sexual abuse perpetrated within this Catholic religious community founded in the early 1970s . The photo shows Jeanine Deckers, better known as Sister Sourire. In 1963, Jeanine Deckers, also known as Sister Sourire or Sister Luc-Gabriel, had a worldwide success with the song "Dominique". However, behind the Dominican sister's smile hid an unsuspected revolt and suffering, which ultimately led her to suicide. Journalist Marie-Christine Blais recounts the tragic story of Jeanine Deckers.
AVREF, a key player in the fight against sectarian excesses
Created in 1998, AVREF's mission is to help victims of sectarian abuses and their families by providing them with legal, psychological and social support. The association also aims to raise awareness among the public and the authorities about the dangers of sects and to promote more protective legislation for victims.
The "Black Book", a relentless indictment
The "Black Book of the Saint Jean Community" focuses primarily on abuses committed by the founder, Father Marie-Dominique Philippe, and other members of the community. The report documents numerous cases of sexual abuse, rape, harassment, psychological and spiritual control. It also denounces the culture of secrecy and omerta that allowed these abuses to continue for years.
Striking excerpts
Victim's testimony: "I was so under his control that I couldn't imagine that he could hurt me. I trusted him completely. He took advantage of my vulnerability and my naivety."
Witness testimony: "We knew there were things wrong, but we didn't dare talk about it. We were afraid of reprisals. We felt helpless."
The report concludes: "This black book is a cry of alarm. It is time for the Catholic Church to recognise the extent of the abuses committed within the Saint John Community and to take concrete measures to ensure that justice is done to the victims."
Detailed summary
The AVREF report paints a dark picture of the Saint Jean Community, marked by:
Widespread sexual abuse: Father Philippe and other members of the community used their position of spiritual authority to abuse their victims, mostly women, but also men and minors.
Psychological and spiritual control: Victims were subjected to intense indoctrination, isolation, guilt and mental manipulation.
A culture of secrecy and omerta: The community actively covered up the abuse, intimidating victims and witnesses.
Doctrinal deviations: Certain deviant theological interpretations have been used to justify abuses.
Conclusion
The "Black Book of the Saint John Community" is an essential document for understanding the extent of the abuses committed within this religious community. But beyond the figures and the testimonies, it is the fate of victims like Albertine that haunts and revolts us. How much longer will the Church remain deaf to the cries of these broken women?
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