INSS Spirituality, Mental Health and Wellbeing SIG

Online meeting

A Non-Human Turn for Extraordinary Experience and Spirituality Research 

Presentation by Dr Jack Hunter

Monday 29th June 2026: 12.00pm - 1.15pm

Dr Jack Hunter is an anthropologist exploring the borderlands of consciousness, religion, ecology and the paranormal. He is an Honorary Research Fellow with the Alister Hardy Religious Experience Research Centre, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, and a tutor at the Sophia Centre for the Study of Cosmology in Culture, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

This presentation argues for a non-human turn in the study of spirituality and extraordinary experience. Many extraordinary and spiritual experiences involve encounters with non-human beings, variously conceived - from encounters with animals, to aliens and angels. For the most part research focuses on the human psychology, personality traits and the benefits of such experiences for human wellbeing. This presentation suggests the need to re-focus on the non-human as an active component of extraordinary and spiritual experiences, and considers what the implications might be for taking the non-human seriously. 

The presentation will be followed by questions and a group discussion.

Welcoming all INSS members to this SIG focussing upon spirituality, mental health and wellbeing across diverse contexts, including in relation to study, research and practice.

The group emphasises co-creating a safe yet focussed space to reflect, explore and share skills and inspiration together.

The SIG Chairs: Dr Katja Milner, Dr Jill Buckeldee