The Experience of Awe

Throughout human history, people have been fascinated by the concept of awe. It is a feeling that can be described as a mixture of apprehension, wonder, and reverence. But what exactly is "awe," and why do we experience it?

The Definition of Awe

There are many ways to define "awe," but most agree that it is a feeling brought on by something vast, beautiful, or extraordinary. Awe can be experienced in nature, in religious or spiritual contexts, or in moments of extreme personal accomplishment. It often produces a sense of transcendence-- that is, a feeling that one has "stepped outside" of the normal, everyday experience of reality.

One famous definition of awe comes from the philosopher Rudolf Otto, who described it as an encounter with the "mysterium tremendum et fascinans"-- that is, an encounter with something both terrifying and fascinating. Otto believed that this encounter was at the core of all religious experience, and that it created a sense of dependence on a higher power.

The Importance of Awe

So why do we experience awe? Some have argued that it is simply a byproduct of our brains' attempts to make sense of the world. When faced with something that is too big or too stunning to easily categorize, our brains respond with a feeling of awe. Others believe that awe is a tool for personal growth and spiritual development. Encountering something that is beyond ourselves can help us to put our own lives and problems in perspective, and to develop a greater sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Studies have also suggested that experiencing awe can have concrete physical benefits, such as reducing stress levels and improving overall health. Awe may also be linked to creativity and a greater sense of connection with the world around us.

The Limits of Awe

While awe can be a powerful and transformative experience, it is not always positive. In some cases, encounters with the sublime can lead to feelings of fear or insignificance. The philosopher Immanuel Kant argued that true awe required an encounter with something that is both immense and incomprehensible-- which means that true awe is actually quite rare. Some have also pointed out that feeling awe can be a way of avoiding personal responsibility or action, by placing too much emphasis on the "mystery" of the world instead of actively engaging with it.

The Search for Awe

Given the many potential benefits of awe, it may not be surprising that people actively seek out experiences that can produce this feeling. This might include visiting natural wonders such as Niagara Falls or the Grand Canyon, attending concerts or other cultural events, or participating in religious or spiritual practices. Some have even suggested that the current trend towards extreme sports and other "adrenaline-fueled" activities is an attempt to create awe through physical risk-taking.

But even if we actively seek out awe-inspiring experiences, we cannot manufacture awe at will. Encountering something that truly transcends our understanding of the world requires a certain openness and vulnerability. It is not something that can be "forced."

Awe and Philosophy

Given the long history of philosophical inquiry into the nature of awe, it is clear that this feeling has played an important role in human thinking and culture. Many philosophers have argued that the experience of awe is a way of approaching the "ultimate reality" of the world-- whether that is understood as a divine being, the natural world, or something else entirely. Others have suggested that awe is an important part of moral development, helping us to cultivate a sense of humility and reverence for the world around us.

• For example, the philosopher Martin Buber argued that awe was a key part of the "I-Thou" relationship, in which we encounter others as unique and valuable individuals rather than just objects to be used.
• The philosopher Joseph Campbell argued that encountering mythic stories and symbols can produce a sense of awe and transcendence, leading to personal growth and spiritual development.
• Finally, the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche had a more ambivalent view of awe. He believed that it was an important part of artistic creation and personal transformation, but also warned that it could be dangerous when used to justify authoritarian or oppressive beliefs.

The Future of Awe

As our understanding of the brain and the complexities of human experience continues to grow, it is likely that we will gain a deeper insight into the nature of awe and its effects on human psychology and culture. One thing that is clear, however, is that the experience of awe will continue to be an important part of human life. Whether we seek it out deliberately or encounter it unexpectedly, the feeling of being overwhelmed by something greater than ourselves is sure to continue to captivate and inspire us for generations to come.