Is an Integrative Model of Neurotheology Possible

Bibliographic Data

ID3260063
AuthorsLeandro M Gaitán (0000-0003-1636-7029, Universidad de Navarra, corresponding author), Javier S Castresana (0000-0002-2373-482X, Universidad de Navarra)
Year2021
Volume12
Issue4
Pages277
Publication date2021-04-16
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel12040277
OpenAlexW3154155525
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited20

This article examines the basic and dialogical models of neurotheology and suggests a third model based on the work of Aldous Huxley. In other words, this proposal is not limited to understanding this discipline as a mere pursuit of neural correlates or as a dialogue between neuroscience and theology. Instead, it is the search for an integrative understanding of religious experiences in which the study of neuronal correlates is only one of the multilevels to be integrated within the framework of a plural and conveniently articulated explanation of such phenomena. This model, which we call integrative neurotheology, hopes to achieve knowledge of religious experiences that includes a comprehensive range of disciplines. In order to update and give argumentative consistency to this model, we will use philosopher Sandra D. Mitchell's theory of integrative pluralism, which is a more epistemologically refined expression of Huxley's intuitions. We conclude that a comprehensive model is feasible although we are aware that this article cannot give answers to all the difficulties that this model possesses. Nevertheless, we expect to open up a new pathway in the studies of religious experience

Argumentative · Cognitive science · Dialogical self · Epistemology · Linguistics · Plural · Sociology · Computer Science · Neuroethics, Human Enhancement, Biomedical Innovations · Philosophy · Psychology · Psychology of Moral and Emotional Judgment · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology · Artificial Intelligence

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