Abstract
Discusses the phenomena of sudden religious conversion. W. James (1905) had classified cases of conversion as being of two types: Volitional, and by surrender. The sudden cases belong to the latter type. The subconscious plays a role in this type, and an incubative mechanism may be operative, though there are certain difficulties associated with accepting this theory. Reports the observation of a case who developed a state of exaltation or ecstasy with the formation of a 'new center of personal energy' or focus of excitement in a new system of ideas. There was evidence of mental disintegration, facilitated, or initiated by mental strain. There was no difference in the content of consciousness, between a state of ecstasy, and one of obsession. The new system of ideas crystallized out of a latent consciousness, and was not sudden, as assumed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)
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