The Religious Predisposition

This article first predicts, on the basis of an analysis of deep absorption, a number of features of mystical and related states of consciousness. It then observes that these very same features appear in beliefs held by people who have never experienced deep absorption. Moreover, many people engage in activities that, though not normally leading to deep absorption, bring about lesser states of absorption. The article will propose an answer to the question how it is that many people are influenced in their beliefs and practices by experiences (deep absorption) they have not had.