The Psychology of Mysticism
Cambridge University Press eBooks January 27, 2026 Z. Chen 6 citations
Mystical experiences transcend perceived reality and transform individuals, characterized by noetic and ineffable qualities. The text presents a fourfold hierarchy of mystical forms: monistic mysticism merges self and ultimate reality in oneness with ego-dissolution; nondualistic mysticism keeps the self distinct yet absorbed into a transcendent order, as in world religions; dualistic mysticism involves encountering a separate nonhuman reality, seen in shamanism and psychedelic states; pluralistic mysticism emphasizes multiple dimensions of self and reality, integrating embodied and spiritual aspects. These perspectives stress that transcendent realities require self-transformation and can inform daily life across cultures.