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Kathryn Howard

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Sharon Janis

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Chemically Induced Spirituality?

Chemically Induced Spirituality?

Mystical experiences. LSD. Serotonin. The connection between these words is perhaps really obvious, albeit controversial. Some drugs have long been known to induce mystical or spiritual experiences, but science is now making it possible to better understand what is actually happening in the brain. This opens up a world of questions. Is it possible that some people are more susceptible to having such experiences? Is there a genetic basis for being religious?
 
Scientists reported their findings in the American Journal of Psychiatry that contradict “the common belief that religious behavior is determined strictly by environmental and cultural factors. They see a biological underpinning for religiosity, and it is related to the neurotransmitter serotonin.”
 
It’s difficult to swallow the fact that the presence of mere chemicals in the brain can increase someone’s ability to live more spiritually, even if it is based on scientific findings. How does this make you feel in terms of your own spirituality? Is biology getting too much credit? [Huffington Post]

Posted: 7/22/08