Astley, Jeff (2015) Beyond science and nature? Reflections on scientific reductionism and mental and religious experience. Journal for the Study of Religious Experience , 1 (1). pp. 32-48. ISSN 2057-2301.

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Abstract

This paper responds to the critique of scientific reductionism in the Manifesto for a Post-Materialist Science (2014). Reflections on the language of transcendence, notions of creation and Ian Ramsey’s epistemology lead into a discussion of the concept of mind. The interpretation of mind in terms of emergent properties, widely welcomed as ‘nonreductive physicalism’, is questioned and the alternative of a qualified substance dualism presented. The Manifesto’s encouragement of the scientific study of spiritual experiences is related to Alister Hardy’s original appeal. Differences between sense and religious experience are explored; the distinction between methodological and ontological types of reductionism discussed; and an apologia for an open approach to experience developed, as an alternative to a more radical post-materialist scientific method. Concluding remarks include a plea for more epistemological humility vis-à-vis experiential claims, the avoidance of ‘spiritual reductionism’ and an acknowledgement of the significance of the material for human nature and dignity.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Centre for Education Studies (2013- )
Journal or Publication Title:	Journal for the Study of Religious Experience
Publisher:	Alister Hardy Religious Experience Research Centre
ISSN:	2057-2301
Official Date:	2015
Dates:	Date Event 2015 Published
Volume:	1
Number:	1
Page Range:	pp. 32-48
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published

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