The Problem of Pure Consciousness: Mysticism and Philosophy
Philosophy East and West October 1, 1993 Daniel Barbiero, Robert K. C. Forman 188 citations
A collection of essays challenges the dominant view that mystical experiences are entirely shaped by a person's prior beliefs and cultural context. Instead, the volume argues for the existence of a universal type of mystical experience called 'pure consciousness'—a state where a person remains aware but without thoughts, sensations, feelings, or any object of awareness. Part I presents evidence of such experiences reported across diverse traditions including Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Part II examines the philosophical implications, concluding that no logical objections rule out the possibility of pure consciousness events.