A transpersonal contribution to the philosophical debate concerning causality

Abstract

In metaphysics there exist long-standing, unresolved problems regarding causation. Indeed, rationalist and empiricist philosophers remain engaged in an intricate debate concerning the ontology of causal relations. We review rationalist and empiricist approaches to the problem of causality and formulate transpersonally orientated criticisms of each. Subsequently, we apply Tart’s notion of a ‘state specific science’ (SSS) to a school of Hindu psychology referred to as advaita vedanta. We argue that advaita vedanta may be conceptualised as a SSS on the grounds that its practitioners apply the methods of essential science from within various grades of samadhi for the purpose of enhancing understanding regarding the nature of reality, consciousness, self, etc. Finally, we attempt to demonstrate that an advaita vedantic SSS has the potential to provide valuable experiential insights regarding the ontology of causation that are unavailable a priori or using ‘normal consciousness sciences ’.