Interview with Michael Adamse, Ph.D
Introduction
Michael Adamse, Ph.D., author of “God’s Shrink,” received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Miami after completing a pre-doctoral fellowship at Yale University. He currently lectures worldwide for Nova Southeastern University. He also served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve. Dr. Adamse specializes in relationship issues and has been in practice for over thirty years.
What’s the book about?
A therapist who’s been practicing for many years, thinks he’s seen it all. A guy comes in and claims he’s God. The shrink thinks he’s crazy except for the fact that a lot of things start happening that become more and more difficult to explain away. The story builds up in intensity to a surprising ending.
Isn’t God supposed to be perfect?
Gabe, the main character in the book claiming to be God, doesn’t have flaws that we normally associate with being human. Instead, he’d presented as a limited resource. He is tired, worn down and even gets depressed sometimes. Viewing Him as a spiritual being with limitations places more of the responsibility for the welfare of the world squarely in our laps. Humanity is a partnership.
In the book you’re suggesting that God doesn’t care what someone believes?
He doesn’t in the sense that he wants people to think for themselves. He very much cares about what people are doing with their time here. Everyone has a mission, but God doesn’t tow any particular party line.
You’re saying that God doesn’t care if someone’s an atheist?
God cares if you’re a good person. It’s a theme throughout the book. He’s much more interested in actions that benefit others…and He asserts that goodness is self evident and a matter of common sense.
You mention politics in the book. Is God political?
Not in the traditional sense. He’s frustrated with poor leadership and impatient with stupidity. He’s well aware that the world is a complex place and clearly believes someone has to call attention to the basic fact that most conflict is senseless. It’s a starting point and, paradoxically, the only way to achieve world peace will be by abandoning an insistence that it’s all extremely complicated.
What do you mean when you say that God’s existence is an empirical truth?
Our experience of God is unique to us as individuals. We can either accept an established belief system, such as what religion offers, or decide to figure it out on our own. There isn’t spiritual anarchy in the absence of a dogmatic system. No one has a corner on the market when they claim to know God exclusively. Tolerance is key.
Isn’t the book somewhat disrespectful of God?
Just the opposite. It’s a call for people to respect the fact that He needs our help. Everyone is always busy praying for His help. Who advocates for Him? God’s Shrink is really an appeal for us to take better care of His needs. The less we tax Him as a resource, the more will be available when and wherever it’s needed. The sooner we grow up the better.
Why do you describe him as a choreographer with limited power?
He’s an incredible architect. The paradox lies in the fact that our free will limits his influence. That’s where we come in. He needs everyone’s help to get the job done. No contribution is too small.
And what’s the job?
Move humanity forward. How each of us contribute to that mission is up to us. We only have a limited time on earth.
What do you think your main character wants to get across to the reader?
The idea that God is a reflection of our individual and collective beliefs. He wants us to think for ourselves but not only about ourselves. Anyone who is capable of giving, in any way, has an inherent mandate to help others. Our greatest purpose is to find our gift and share it in a way that benefits humanity.