Dr. Marina Weiler, a neuroscientist with UVA’s Division of
Perceptual Studies and lead author, explained that OBEs can trigger
profound psychological transformations, fostering a deeper sense of
understanding and compassion.
“Empathy is a fundamental aspect of
human interaction that allows individuals to connect deeply with
others, fostering trust and understanding,” Weiler noted.
OBEs,
in which a person feels as though they are outside their physical body,
can arise from various causes, such as sensory deprivation, hypnosis, or
even spontaneously in critical situations.
While often linked to
religious or supernatural events, Weiler and her colleagues’ research
frames these experiences within a scientific context, underscoring their
psychological and neurological significance.
Central to the
study is the concept of “ego dissolution,” a state where one’s sense of
individuality weakens, leading to a greater connection with the world.
Researchers suggest that OBEs stimulate brain regions like the
temporoparietal junction and the default mode network, which may amplify
empathy and compassion...<<<Read More>>>...