The Neuroscience of Religious and Spiritual Experiences: Focus on Methodological Issues
The Oxford Handbook of Psychedelic, Religious, Spiritual, and Mystical Experiences September 22, 2026 DOI: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780192844064.013.26 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
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| Key points | Argues that research on spiritual experiences and their neurobiological correlates has advanced through first-person and third-person approaches, as well as studies of pathological conditions and psychedelic compounds, and contends that these efforts have helped elucidate underlying neurobiological mechanisms, while highlighting methodological challenges and a promising future for "neurotheology." |
Abstract
Abstract: The aim of this chapter is to provide a perspective on the current state of research that assesses spiritual experiences and their neurobiological correlates specifically focusing on the methodological challenges of this field of research. Current research studies have utilized both first-person and third-person approaches towards understanding spiritual experiences. In addition, studies of pathological conditions and the effects of psychedelic compounds on spiritual experiences are also important to consider. All these studies have helped to elucidate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms related to spiritual experiences. Overall, this field of study attempting to link the brain and spiritual experiences, sometimes referred to as neurotheology, has a bright and exciting future.