Neurophenomenology and Neuroepistemology Approaches to Integrating Constructivist, Perennialist, and Universalist Perspectives on Mystical Experiences

Differences among constructivist, perennialist, and universalist views on mystical experiences can be reconciled through neurophenomenology and neuroepistemology, which show that both learned (constructivist) and innate (universal) processes shape these experiences. Specific brain functions and their activation or suspension produce the phenomenal similarities and differences in meditative states. Meditators deliberately modify brain processes through deconditioning of habitual cognition, gaining access to preconceptual awareness and unconscious mental processes. Different mystical experiences involve changes in neurologically mediated forms of self, providing a basis for universal mystical experiences. Recurrent forms of mystical consciousness are understood as natural brain states.

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Abstract

Differences among constructivist, perennialist, and universalist perspectives on mystical experiences are bridged with neurophenomenology and neuroepistemology perspectives that illustrate constructivist and deconditioning processes and universal innate experiences. These approaches show that phenomenal similarities and differences in the features of meditative experiences are related to specific brain functions and processes. This illustrates that recurrent forms of mystical consciousness involve the activation or suspension of specific brain functions and their forms of knowing. Meditators’ deliberate modifications of brain processes engage constructivist and deconditioning processes that provide access to intrinsic states understood as mystical experiences. Deconditioning of habitual cognitive processes through meditation changes habitual attention and cognition, permitting access to preconceptual awareness and normally unconscious intrinsic mental processes. Different mystical experiences involve changes in specific neurologically mediated forms of self that provide the basis for universal forms of mystical experience. Neuroepistemological perspectives on qualia of meditative states and their relations to mental processes and brain features provide a framework for understanding recurrent forms of mystical experiences as natural brain states.