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Wednesday 11 September 2024

Out-of-body experiences affect empathy levels, research shows

 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>>>...