Harold Koenig, MD

In a thought-provoking conversation, Harold Koenig, Director at Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, explores how religion may provide social support to combat loneliness. Senator Chris Murphy highlights the global loneliness crisis, advocating for community solutions. In contrast, Ruth Whippman argues for secular approaches as more inclusive, while Dan Barker critiques the potential alienation caused by organized religion. Together, they tackle the complex interplay between faith, community, and mental health in today's society.

Craig Fowler, a top ophthalmologist and surgery chair at Campbell University, teams up with Harold Koenig, a renowned expert in science, theology, and spirituality from Duke University. Together, they unravel the myth of hallucinations explaining Jesus’s post-resurrection appearances. They discuss how collective hallucinations are improbable, the profound relationship between faith and health, and the unique nature of the apostles' encounters. Their insights reveal how faith can enhance well-being and criticize the hallucination hypothesis with compelling research and personal stories.

Dr. Harold Koenig, world renowned psychiatry and spirituality specialist, discusses the role of religion and spirituality on mental health. They explore the positive impact of religion and its potential harm through stigmatization. They define religion and spirituality, and discuss atheism as a religion. They explore the relationship between religion and mental health, including its cultural aspects and Freud's negative view of religion. They also discuss how religion provides purpose and peace of mind, and debate the incorporation of religion in mental health care.