Embracing metaphysics in transpersonal psychology: A response to Steve Taylor

In response to Steve Taylor's review of the revised edition of Shadow, Self, Spirit (2021), the author clarifies that their perspective rejects materialism and affirms the need for metaphysical concepts in transpersonal psychology. They argue that researchers should bracket metaphysical assumptions when studying transpersonal phenomena and prefer non-metaphysical explanations when sufficient. The author expands criticisms of Taylor's 'soft perennialism' and contends that Jorge Ferrer's participatory theory provides a more productive framework for understanding metaphysics, the diversity of spiritual experiences, and religious pluralism.

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Abstract

Steve Taylor’s Review of the new edition of my book Shadow, Self, Spirit (2021) focuses on a critique of what he sees as my ‘sceptical’ stance on metaphysics and my rejection of his own ‘soft perennialism’. I respond to Taylor’s criticisms by noting: (1) that my own perspective rejects materialism and acknowledges the need for metaphysical concepts in transpersonal psychology; and (2) that, in researching transpersonal phenomena, researchers should aim to bracket metaphysical assumptions and should prefer non-metaphysical explanations where these are sufficient. I expand upon and clarify my criticisms of soft perennialism and argue that Jorge Ferrer’s participatory theory offers a more productive approach to understanding metaphysics, the varieties of spiritual experience, and religious pluralism.