Neurology, psychology, and extraordinary religious experiences.

Experiences labeled "religious" that arise from temporal lobe epilepsy or certain personality disorders can be authentic, even when triggered by neurological pathology. Authenticity depends on whether the experience furthers the subject's genuine growth, not on its cause. Historical examples show that pathological conditions have occasioned authentic religious experiences. The question of God's role in such experiences is secondary for practical purposes, and miraculous claims should not be accepted without sufficient evidence. This perspective resolves apparent conflicts between scientific explanations and religious faith.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Temporal lobe epilepsy and certain personality disorders often result in experiences described as "religious." TLE research suggests a possible neurological basis for such experiences. Immediately the question arises about the authenticity of these experiences as religious. An experience is authentic if it furthers the authentic growth of the subject, regardless of what triggered it. So pathology may occasion authentic religious experiences, even as history exemplifies. For practical purposes, the further question about God in religious experience is secondary. The exception, miraculous occurrences, should not be granted without sufficient reason. This approach dissolves all conflict between science and faith.