Werner Gross
English Books

Don’t Believe, What You Think

Sense and Nonsense of Religion and Religiosity

In „Don’t Believe, What You Think – Sense and Nonsense of Religion and Religiosity Werner Gross, a psychotherapist and expert in psychology, explores the complex and often contradictory role of religion in modern life. Drawing on his long tenure as the head of the Religion Working Group in the Professional Association of German Psychologists, Gross critically examines the continuing relevance of religion in today’s world, offering a nuanced view of its impact on individuals and society. He addresses both the positive and negative aspects of religious belief systems, emphasizing their emotional support functions, particularly in times of crisis, as well as their darker sides, such as their role in justifying violence and abuse. Gross traces the origins of religions, suggesting that they emerged from human fears, emptiness, and the quest for meaning, attempting to explain the inexplicable. He argues that religions, while offering valuable guidance in moments of existential doubt, may not always be suitable for everyday life. The book ultimately raises important questions about the place of religion in contemporary psychology, urging readers to critically assess both the benefits and harms that religious belief systems can offer.

As One Lives, so One Dies

On the Life and Death of Great Psychotherapists

As One Lives, So One Dies by Werner Gross explores the profound relationship between life and death as seen through the lives of famous psychotherapists. Gross examines how key figures like Freud, Jung, Adler, Perls, and others lived, the challenges they faced, and how their experiences shaped their unique approaches to psychotherapy. The book delves into how their personal struggles and crises influenced their theoretical contributions. It also explores how these influential figures approached death, connecting their attitudes toward mortality with the psychotherapeutic methods they developed. Accessible to both professionals and laypeople, this work offers a unique perspective on the intersection of personal experience and therapeutic philosophy.