The Link between Religion and Health: Psychoneuroimmunology and the Faith Factor

by Harold G. Koenig (Editor), Harvey Jay Cohen

This book is the first to present new medical research establishing a connection between religion and health and to examine the implications for Eastern and Western religious traditions and for society and culture.
The distinguished list of contributors examine a series of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) topics that relate to religious faith and behavior. PNI studies the relationships between mental states and the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Among the issues it focuses upon are how mental states, in general, and belief states, in particular, affect physical health. The contributors argue that religious involvement and belief can affect certain neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms, and that these mechanisms, in turn, susceptibility to cancer and recovery following surgery. This volume is essential reading for those interested in the relationship between religion and health.

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 17, 2001

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Harold George Koenig

Reviews

[Walt Kasmir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harold G. Koenig is a pioneer who delves into the intricate relationship between religious beliefs and practices and their impact on physical and mental health. Koenig, a leading researcher in the field of spirituality and health, presents a compelling case for the positive effects of religious involvement on various health outcomes, including stress reduction, immune function, and longevity. The book is meticulously researched, drawing from a wide array of studies in psychoneuroimmunology, psychology, and epidemiology. It serves as a comprehensive resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith and well-being. Koenig's work is particularly valuable for its multidisciplinary approach, bridging the gap between medical science and spiritual perspectives.

What sets this book apart is its rigorous scientific approach to a subject often considered to be intangible or subjective. Koenig doesn't merely rely on anecdotal evidence or theological arguments; instead, he employs empirical data to substantiate the claims about the health benefits of religious involvement. Critics may argue that the book could be perceived as advocating for religiosity as a "cure-all," but Koenig is careful to present a balanced view, acknowledging the limitations and complexities involved in understanding the faith-health connection. Whether you are a healthcare provider, a spiritual leader, or someone interested in the holistic aspects of well-being, "The Link between Religion and Health" offers a nuanced and evidence-based exploration of how faith can influence health outcomes. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the interdisciplinary study of religion and health.

[Jos · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great point of reference to identify the role religiosity has played in group work. My primary interest reading this book was to further explore how group relations can improve feelings of loneliness associated with symptoms of clinical PTSD/Depression. Socialization features of religious or spiritual experiences may serve as an effective means of understanding isolation from symptoms of clinical PTSD/Depression. I appreciate the perspective and scope of analysis that this book provides on the subject. What a nice read.