Maharishi Effect
The Maharishi Effect is a claim originating with the Transcendental Meditation movement holding that group meditation practiced by a number of people equal to the square root of one percent of a population measurably reduces crime and violence in that region, a claim whose supporting studies have been criticized by independent statisticians for methodological flaws including post-hoc data selection.
The Maharishi Effect refers to the claimed phenomenon whereby group meditation by practitioners of Transcendental Meditation allegedly produces measurable improvements in societal indicators including reduced crime rates, decreased violence, and enhanced social coherence. This theory was promoted by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi beginning in the 1970s.
Proponents claim that when the square root of one percent of a population practices TM simultaneously, positive effects radiate throughout the entire community. They cite studies purporting to show reduced crime rates, improved economic indicators, and decreased social tensions in areas where large TM groups meditated.
The theory gained attention during the 1980s when TM researchers published studies claiming to demonstrate the effect in various locations worldwide. These studies reported statistical correlations between group meditation sessions and improvements in social indicators such as traffic accidents, hospital admissions, and stock market performance.
Mainstream scientists have criticized the research methodology, noting problems with data selection, statistical analysis, and failure to account for confounding variables. Independent replications have failed to confirm the claimed effects. The phenomenon remains accepted only within TM communities and represents an attempt to scientifically validate spiritual practices through social statistics.
Another entry in this category is RADIN, Dean.
Bibliography:
- Journal of Social Behavior
- Consciousness Research
- Meditation Studies Quarterly
- Critical Social Science Review