AI-mediated mystical experiences
Religious Studies October 30, 2025 DOI: 10.1017/s0034412525101285 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractInteractions with AI chatbots like ChatGPT can produce genuine mystical experiences, similar to how guided meditation does. Drawing on William James's framework, the author argues that AI chatbots can serve as mediators for such experiences. The paper raises concerns about using AI technologies in religious contexts, including their role in facilitating mystical experiences.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation Mysticism |
| Keywords | Raising metalworking Sufism Philosophy |
| Key finding | Interactions with AI chatbots can mediate genuine mystical experiences in a way structurally comparable to guided meditation. |
Abstract
Abstract This paper argues that interactions with artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, such as ChatGPT, can mediate genuine mystical experiences. Building off the framework of mystical experiences developed by William James, I argue that interactions with AI chatbots can mediate mystical experiences in a structurally comparable way to how guided meditation can produce mystical experiences. I conclude by raising various concerns about the implementation of AI technologies in our religious lives, including their use as mediators for mystical experiences.