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Religion and the forgiving personality.
M E McCullough1, E L Worthington
1Department of Research, National Institute for Healthcare Research, Rockville, MD 20852, USA. mike@nihr.org
Journal of Personality
|January 19, 2000
Summary
This study explores the links between forgiveness and religion across major monotheistic faiths and empirical research. Forgiveness may serve as a common ground for future research on religion and personality, impacting well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
Background:
- Forgiveness has deep roots in religious traditions.
- It is also a fundamental social and psychological phenomenon.
- Understanding the intersection of forgiveness, religion, and personality is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the links between forgiveness and religion.
- To survey religious perspectives on forgiveness in monotheistic religions.
- To examine empirical evidence connecting forgiveness and religion.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of major monotheistic religions.
- Survey of empirical research on forgiveness and religion.
- Proposal of explanations for empirical findings.
Main Results:
- Forgiveness is conceptually linked to major monotheistic religions.
- Empirical data suggest a connection between forgiveness and religion.
- Four potential explanations for these links are proposed for future research.
Conclusions:
- Forgiveness is both spiritual and social-psychological.
- Forgiveness may be linked to human health and well-being.
- Forgiveness can be a common ground for research on religion and personality.