Читать книгу The Handy Psychology Answer Book - Lisa J. Cohen - Страница 29

The Romans were better known for their practical accomplishments in the fields of law, engineering, and warfare than for their philosophical works but some contributions are worth noting. Cicero (106–42 B.C.E.), the famous Roman orator, gave a detailed description of the passions. He grouped the passions into four categories: discomfort, fear, pleasure or joy, and desire (libido in Latin). We can wonder whether Freud’s use of the term libido was influenced by Cicero.

How does the belief in demonic possession relate to psychology?

The idea of the devil was pervasive throughout the Middle Ages and pre-scientific Europe, and all manner of illness and misfortune was attributed to Satan or lesser devils and demons. Mental illness, in particular, was seen to be caused by demonic possession. It was believed that Jesus exorcised demons, a task that was performed by priests in the Middle Ages. Even today some people believe in demonic possession.