Chapter 7 - Universal Neuropsychological Model of Spiritual Transcendence

Abstract

This chapter presents a universal neuropsychological model of spiritual transcendence. Our model suggests that the right hemisphere/parietal lobe processes a “sense of self.” When this sense of self is inhibited (through injury, technological intervention, or behavioral practices), individuals can experience a decreased sense of self and an increased sense of universal connectedness, which can lead to spiritual transcendence. To support this model, we provide evidence that the emotional experience of universal connectedness associated with spiritual transcendence is related to certain neurochemicals (i.e., oxytocin and dopamine). We finish with thoughts on how sociocultural and religious factors can influence the self-related processing of spiritually transcendent experiences.