Here he reviews the outlines of what he believes could become a new theology, open to both mystical experience and modern science. He builds upon the evolutionary, process theology of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. He also emphasizes the unification of particle physics and depth psychology — as revealed in the explorations of Carl G. Jung [...]

Here he reflects on the life and accomplishments of Camille Flammarion, who was widely known as a popularizer of both astronomy and psychical research. He was closely associated with the spiritism of Allan Kardec. He was also involved in the investigation of many mediums, including the controversial Eusapia Paladino whom he accepted as genuine. He [...]

Here he describes how he was an active Buddhist meditator for twenty years while he was also engaged in DMT research. Eventually he left Buddhist practice, and began a deep study of the Hebrew bible. Initially, he thought that the DMT “spirit molecule” might be responsible for spiritual experiences. In retrospect, he now believes that [...]

Here he describes how he began his investigations as a young man who encountered a psychic healer who served as his mentor and friend. When his friend backed out of participation in a healing experiment with cancer-injected mice, Bengston stepped in unwillingly. To his astonishment, after several healing sessions, the mice were completely cured. This [...]

Here he discusses the effects of orthodox Zoroastrianism, the state religion of the Sasanian Persian Dynasty, upon the Manichaean and Mazdakite gnostic traditions in Iran. Mani was a talented physician, artist, and religious figure who endeavored to construct a world religion combining Buddhism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. The Mazdakite tradition promoted both the abolishment of private [...]

He is also co-editor of two academic anthologies: Mindfulness and Buddhist-derived Approaches in Mental Health and Addiction, and The Buddhist Foundations of Mindfulness. William has over 100 academic publications relating to the scientific study of meditation. Prior to joining academia, William was a Buddhist monk for ten years.

Here he argues that all scientists can benefit from a cultivation of their inner experience — as all science is based upon observation. He, personally, has been practicing a form of kriya yoga for almost sixty years. The purpose of spiritual practices is to create an alignment of body, mind, and spirit. He expresses this [...]

Here he describes the process of setting up a program to research the psychedelic drug, DMT, at the University of New Mexico. It took two years to obtain the required permissions, as there had been a twenty year hiatus in psychedelic research on human subjects. He describes the many precautions required for such research. He [...]

Here he elaborates on several ostensible paradoxes associated with Einstein’s theories of relativity. The normal laws that we associate with space and time in our daily lives break down. Ironically, while people associate Einstein with relativity, he considered himself a determinist. Close proposes that paradoxes of space and time are resolved once we bring consciousness [...]

Here he notes that a number of parapsychologists are unwilling to accept the existence of psi. Yet, in his own experience, remote viewing is very robust and productive. He suggests that the best researchers have had psi experiences of their own; and also have been engaged with esoteric traditions and spiritual practices. He explains how [...]