Can Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs) Unlock Empathy?
As a researcher for the Shared Crossing Project, an initiative that delves into the profound experiences people have when they share in the passing of a loved one, I stumbled upon something intriguing. When interviewing several people on the phenomenon of Shared Death Experiences (SDEs) it was discovered that alongside their SDEs, they also encountered vivid Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs).
Imagine feeling like you are floating outside your body, looking down on yourself from above as if watching from somewhere else. In this state, you are exploring what feels like a new realm, where your senses are heightened, and your understanding of reality is vastly different. This moment feels as if your soul wants to break free and get away from the limiting boundaries of the physical world. It sounds surreal; however, OBEs most likely have been occurring centuries after centuries and yet it continues to be mysterious. But, even more importantly (and here it gets interesting), in the future they might unlock a path to something far bigger, “enhanced empathy“. This intensified state of consciousness seems to be able to introduce us, not only to new realms and dimensions, but perhaps life itself.
So, how do we put all this in the context of empathy? When we step out of the boundaries imposed by our physical senses, we experience expanded versions that create an entirely new depth perception and level of awareness at which we can see things not from a worldly perspective but in a broader way. There is a sense in which we are trapped in a different dimension of what life is all about and as a result, it changes the way we handle other people. The altered consciousness which comes with out-of-body experiences seems to bring people to another level of how much more can be taught about the essence of creation.
The Link Between OBEs and Empathy
This year, Weiler et al. published research which focused on Out-of-Body Experiences and their relationship with empathy. It supports the argument that OBEs facilitate an increase in one’s empathy and pro-social behavior by activating ego dissolution. Ego dissolution refers to the state in which people, during their OBEs, feel as though they are outside their body and lose their identity, thus being able to comprehend the oneness of all beings. As a result, there are several OBEs whereby people who are very much connected to others and who are able to feel and respond to other people’s needs better such that they are more tolerant and sensitive and filled with compassion and empathy. It has been shown that synergetic and ego-dissolving techniques facilitate more profound interpersonal relationships and develop a sense of belonging toward humanity, reinforcing the connection between ego dissolution and heightened empathy.
However, OBEs are not the only experiences that can precipitate this emotional shift, psychedelic experiences do as well. Experiences with psychedelic drugs are known for their ability to produce effects analogous to these. Those who have ingested substances like psilocybin often say they felt themselves dissolved, with an overpowering sense of connection to the entire universe. This is not merely about unusual visions and reason skews, but rather connecting with the feelings of others and discovering from them a deeper understanding. Would it be that these altered states of consciousness are tapping into the same neural circuits? There is mounting evidence from researchers suggesting this could be so. OBEs and psychedelic experiences may share some common brain mechanisms. One key player is the Temporoparietal Junction (TPJ), a part of the brain that is responsible for self-awareness and our ability to understand others’ emotions. During OBEs and psychedelic experiences, brain activity in the TPJ seems to shift, which makes sense as consciousness changes from one mode to another, which might explain why these experiences lead to a heightened sense of unity with others.
Picture this: in everyday life, we are constantly working on balancing personal needs as well as those of others. We move through the world, reading expressions of emotions and behaviours, deciding when to focus on ourselves and when to tune into someone else’s mood. OBEs might enhance this delicate dance. As we finally step outside into new realms, it allows us to see things fundamentally from another viewpoint. The result? A greater ability to empathise, feel compassion, and engage in more caring, pro-social behaviours.
Can OBEs be induced artificially?
To unlock the secrets of OBEs, scientists are using such technologies as virtual reality and brain stimulation. Even when such methods can give people a sensation similar to an OBE, many experiencers describe the events as confusing or hallucinatory. Unfortunately, those who have real OBEs often state that they are so clear and rich as a lucid dream. When researchers delve deeper, the gap between artificial and true experiences both in quality and quantity of input experience is great, and still hard to understand. There is a long way to go before we can accurately reproduce the entire experience of human consciousness through digital technology.
Other paths to enhanced empathy
Arguably, OBEs are not the only avenue to empathy. Acts of the Universe itself, whether in the presence of ongoing great music, art or nature, such moments naturally evoke empathy. These moments of awe enable us to see not just the beauty of the world, but also how we are connected. These little wonderments reveal to us the great beauty in the world and harmony between all of life, they are small reminders that we are part of something great and expansive.
Empathy itself is most likely a relatively complex construct, based on many different brain regions, not just the Temporoparietal junction TPJ. How OBEs might relate to ego dissolution and empathy is far less clear. On an individual level, it is safe to say that these radically transformed states of consciousness whether through OBEs, psychedelics, or during awe-filled moments more generally can foster more compassionate and pro-social behaviours.
Future research of OBEs is expected to bring better insight into the effects they have on who we think we are (sense-of-self), and how much empathy-based actions come into play. As research continues, more emphasis will likely involve individuals who are able to self-induce OBEs in laboratory environments, providing deeper insights into the brain’s role in such extraordinary states. If OBEs can indeed unlock greater empathy, they could offer a powerful tool for healing, both on a personal and societal level.
Reference
Weiler, M., Acunzo, D. J., Cozzolino, P. J., & Greyson, B. (2024). Exploring the transformative potential of out-of-body experiences: A pathway to enhanced empathy. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 163, 105764. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105764
Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
Melanie Oborne is a psychologist and researcher who has a passion for bringing together clinical practices, scientific research, and spiritual paradigms to enhance individual well-being. Since 2018, Melanie has assisted clients to integrate their transpersonal and/or paranormal experiences. Melanie currently conducts qualitative research with the Shared Crossing Project based in Santa Barbara, California.
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
- Melanie Oborne, Our Expert
