Alister Hardy: A Naturalist of the Spiritual Realm

Alister Hardy was one of the pioneers scientific study spiritual experiences (SE); however, his work and insights have not received attention they deserve. This paper, based on an in-depth analysis Hardy’s own writings, presents main methodological epistemological contributions for advancing investigation SE. propositions were as follows: transcendent core spirituality SE a major source R/S beliefs; nondogmatic approach, acknowledging that Darwinian evolution does imply materialism mind is reducible to matter; call studies psychic considering expanded naturalism, including “para-physical”, could lead perennial philosophy natural theology. His methods focused phenomenological classification development history with proper ecological validity experimental experiential, mixing large surveys general population qualitative most prominent cases. In addition, it would be worth investigating developments throughout person’s life. Bringing back will foster better understanding provide key moving forward.