The pursuit of peace in the Middle East has been a complex challenge faced by the international community for decades. Amidst the traditional diplomatic and political efforts, an alternative approach has emerged through the adoption of meditation practices, specifically the Transcendental Meditation program and its theoretically extended impact, known as the Maharishi Effect. This concept is built on the premise that a critical mass of individuals practicing this form of meditation can radiate a calming influence into the collective consciousness, potentially reducing stress and conflict within a society.
Extensive research on the Maharishi Effect suggests that group meditation has quantifiable positive effects on societal well-being. Studies have highlighted how large assemblies of practitioners can lead to decreased violence and improved conditions in conflict-ridden regions. In the Middle East, where tensions have been long-standing and solutions elusive, this approach proposes a unique intervention by addressing the underlying stress that often fuels hostilities.
While the notion of meditation contributing to regional peace may seem unconventional, empirical evidence has prompted scientists and peace activists to consider its potential advantages. The induction of the Maharishi Effect through coordinated group meditation sessions is an opportunity for a non-conventional pathway to harmony that complements existing peacekeeping and diplomatic efforts. As populations grapple with the tangible strains of conflict, the introduction of collective meditative practices could be a critical and transformative strategy in the Middle East peace dialogue. 
Foundations of the Maharishi Effect influencing collective consciousness
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi the founder of Transcendental Meditation introduced the concept that individual peace could extend to societal tranquility. He suggested that when a critical mass of individuals achieves a higher state of consciousness through meditation, the resultant effect can spread, enhancing the collective consciousness of a larger population. This theory proposes that the positive effects of group meditation can reduce societal stress, conflict, and violence.
Transcendental Meditation and the TM-Sidhi Program
Transcendental Meditation (TM), a core technique at the heart of the Maharishi Effect, is a simple, non-religious method practiced twice daily for 20 minutes. The TM-Sidhi Program, an advanced aspect of TM aims to strengthen the individual’s connection with the unified field of all the laws of nature, potentially enhancing the effect on collective consciousness.
Scientific Research on the Unified Field
Scientific research supports the hypothesis that meditation can have measurable effects on societal trends. Statistics imply that when a minimum number of individuals practice the TM-Sidhi Program in a group — typically the square root of one percent of a population — a significant reduction in negative social indices, such as crime rates and war fatalities, ensues. These studies suggest an underlying field of consciousness — the unified field connects us all and is accessible through collective meditation practice.
The combination of Transcendental Meditation, and the advanced TM-Sidhi Program with evidence-based scientific research define the foundations of the Maharishi Effect, offering a unique approach to fostering peace.
Global Applications and Outcomes
In exploring the utility of the Maharishi Effect on a global scale, it becomes evident that societal structures can reflect significant changes. It is observed that strategic implementations of collective meditation practices have yielded quantifiable shifts in behavior and societal peace indicators.
Impact on Society and Crime Rates
Research indicates that when a certain threshold of a population engages in Transcendental Meditation, it can lead to a reduction in crime rates, including violent crime. This phenomenon, part of the Maharishi Effect, suggests behavioral change toward increased positivity and reduced societal stress.
Notable Outcomes:
- Decrease in Violent Crime: Studies have demonstrated a decrease in violent crime, supporting the theory that meditation can positively impact society.
- Behavioral Quality: Improved quality of life indices have been associated with the practice of Transcendental Meditation on a community-wide scale.
International Peace Projects and Conflict Resolution
The Maharishi Effect has also been engaged as a tool for international peace projects with assemblies focusing on meditation to foster conflict resolution. Large groups practicing techniques of Transcendental Meditation have been convened over the past decades with the intention of decreasing international conflict and terrorism.
Research-oriented approaches show statistical significance in the correlation between such meditations and decreased international conflict.
Notable Case Studies
The following case studies present specific instances where the Maharishi Effect has been applied in efforts to reduce conflict and promote peace in the Middle East.
The Lebanon War Intervention
The Lebanon War InterventionIn 1983, during the peak of the Lebanon War, a two-month intervention was conducted in Jerusalem involving individuals practicing Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs. This study, detailed in findings on An Antidote to Violence, observed that, on days when the size of the group was at or above the predicted threshold level, war deaths in Lebanon decreased by 76%. The group’s meditation practice was suggested to positively influence the conflict.
Improvements were also found in composite indices of quality of life (including data on crime, motor vehicle accidents, fires, national mood) in Israel when the group was large enough to predict effects at the city or national levels.
Reducing Violence and Conflict in the Middle East
Following the Lebanon War Intervention, Transcendental Meditation has been employed with the goal of reducing violence and conflict in the broader Middle East. Studies, such as the one listed on An Antidote to Violence, have shown correlational results where days with large meditation group gatherings saw a decrease in the intensity of fires in warfare and an increase in cooperation among conflicting parties. These effects suggest the potential impact of collective consciousness on regional peace and stability.
Replication of the war-intensity study
Replication of the war-intensity studyThe finding of reduced war in Lebanon was subsequently replicated for all seven assemblies that comprised TM-Sidhi groups of sufficient size to predict the Maharishi Effect for the region during the peak of the conflict between 1983 and 1985. This included groups located in or close to Lebanon and larger assemblies further afield. Statistical analysis, which controlled for temperature, holidays, and weekends, demonstrated that the results were independent of alternative explanations. Multiple indicators of reduced conflict replicated the findings when combining intervention periods, including 66% increase in cooperation between antagonists; 71% reduction in war-related fatalities; 68% decrease in war-related injuries; and 48% reduction in levels of conflict.(23)
Ted Gurr, emeritus Professor of Government and Politics at the University of Maryland and distinguished scholar in the domain of conflict analysis, stated:
“In the studies I have examined on the impact of [Maharishi Effect] on conflict. I can find no methodological flaws, and the findings have been consistent across a large number of replications in many different geographical and conflictual situations. As unlikely as the premise may sound, I think we have to take these studies seriously.”
Reduced fatalities and crime in US
Reduced fatalities and crime in USCompared to trends in the 50-month pre-intervention period (when group size was well below the critical threshold), the 48-month intervention period showed cumulative reductions in US national mortality rates from: homicide (21.2% decrease); motor vehicle accident fatalities (13.5% decrease); other accidental fatalities (20.5% decrease); drug-related deaths (20.5% decrease); and infant mortality (12.5% decrease).(4-7)
Reductions were also found for rates of violent crime (18.4% decrease) and murder (28.4% decrease), measured in a sample of 206 urban areas (total population 60 million in 2010). Interestingly, although these urban areas initially had higher murder rates than the country as a whole, they experienced a greater percentage decline during the experimental period.(7)
The authors examined other possible explanations for these results, but none were found to account for the decreases in these usually unconnected variables.
Prospective study in US reduction in crime
Prospective study in US reduction in crime4,000 participants in the TM-Sidhi program gathered in Washington DC for a six-week demonstration project in 1993. Predictions were lodged in advance with a 27-member independent review panel and advertised in the Washington Post.The results provide evidence of a dosage effect: when numbers participating increased, the effects were greater. Findings showed a 23.3% reduction in total violent crime during the project period, as well as increased approval ratings for President Clinton. In addition, accidents, emergency psychiatric calls, hospital trauma cases and complaints against police all decreased, while a quality of life index improved.
Current Activities in the Middle East
To help relieve the immediate impact of trauma and its long-term consequences Israeli teachers began teaching TM courses to survivors of the attack on the kibbutz bordering the Gaza Strip.
Mooli Lahad is the founder and president of the Community Stress Prevention Center in the North of Israel and considers TM a central healing modality for acute and chronic PTSD. Having reviewed all the TM studies, he concludes that TM could be the solution for some people who are going through great difficulties, citing TM as a major approach to restore well-being. https://www.
Integrating Maharishi Effect in Government, Health and Education
The implementation of Maharishi TM Program within crucial societal structures aims to enhance governance, educational frameworks, and overall community well-being.
Government: The introduction of Transcendental Meditation programs within government agencies seeks to improve decision-making and reduce stress amongst officials. Pilot projects in government institutions have aimed at creating a cohesive and peaceful work environment, which can positively influence policymaking and diplomacy.
Education System: Schools and universities have begun to integrate Transcendental Meditation into curricula to benefit students and educators alike. This implementation is supported by research suggesting that such practices can enhance cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety, and foster a conducive learning environment.
Health: Regular practice of Maharishi Technology in the form of meditation has been linked to improvements in health outcomes, with reported reductions in stress and related disorders. It is posited that these health benefits can lead to decreased healthcare costs and improved quality of life.
Social Indicators:
- Crime Rate: Analyses indicated that when certain thresholds of a population engage in Transcendental Meditation, crime rates have shown notable declines.
- Unemployment: While data is preliminary, communities practicing Maharishi Technology report anecdotal reductions in unemployment, as individuals claim to experience increased personal stability and skills conducive to employability.
The Future of Peace Initiatives
Focused on tangible outcomes, peace initiatives in the Middle East are steering towards incorporating methods that may seem unconventional, yet have empirical evidence supporting their potential. The Maharishi Effect, recognized for its claim to reduce international conflict and promote world peace is one initiative is gaining attention for its scalability and research-backed results.
Expanding the Global Reach
Efforts to expand the reach of these peace initiatives are multifaceted, ranging from local to global scales. Specifically, the Maharishi Vedic Research Institute is working to train more individuals in consciousness-based technologies in hopes of creating larger groups that can catalyze positive social change. On an international level, these programs aim to include participants from diverse regions, thereby integrating different cultures and communities into a singular peaceful movement.
- Training Centers: Establishments across various countries increasing their capacity to teach meditation techniques.
- Community Involvement: Engaging local communities to reach the required threshold for a measurable Maharishi Effect.
- Cultural Integration: Including practices in harmony with regional beliefs to foster wider acceptance.
Sustainability and Ongoing Research
Maintaining and validating the effectiveness of peace initiatives like the Maharishi Effect require consistent application and scientific analysis. Sustainability is about embedding these practices into daily routines and social norms, ensuring that their benefits span generations. Ongoing research continues to form the backbone of this approach, with empirical research demonstrating statistically significant reductions in crime rates and warfare incidents correlating with mass meditation. Scholars and researchers are regularly assessing outcomes to reinforce the strategies and adapt them over time.
- Long-term Studies: Adhering to rigorous methodologies to confirm that positive trends are the result of these initiatives.
- Public Policy Integration: Collaborations with governments to incorporate meditation programs in public health and education systems.
- Sustainable Practices: Creating self-sufficient communities that continue meditative practices independently.
Conclusion
The Maharishi Effect posits that a collective state of meditation can foster coherence and harmony in society. Research suggests that large groups practicing Transcendental Meditation may lead to reduced conflict. In the context of the Middle East, this approach holds potential for peace-building.
- Global Impact: Studies show evidence of social indicators improving when large meditative groups focus on peace. Continued application could influence global trends favoring reduced tensions and increased stability.
- Future Directions: It is imperative to monitor ongoing effects and expand research. The focus should be on verifiable results, ensuring the methodology’s scientific credibility.
The strategies for peace through meditation in the Middle East rely on the underlying assumption that increased societal coherence can alleviate tension. Continued practice could have a substantial influence, contributing to a more harmonious global community.
Raymond Russ, PhD, Professor of Psychology, University of Maine and former editor of the Journal of Mind and Behaviour, commenting on one research study, declared:
“The hypothesis definitely raised some eyebrows among our reviewers. But the statistical work is sound. The numbers are there. When you can statistically control for as many variables as these studies do, it makes the results much more convincing. This evidence indicates that we now have a new technology to generate peace in the world.”
List of Scientific Research on the Maharishi Effect
David Orme-Johnson, PhD
Lee Fergusson, PhD
This is a list of 118 papers on the Maharishi Effect, the effects of individuals or groups practicing the Transcendental Meditation and/or TM-Sidhi programs on conflict-related variables and other social indicators. There are fifty-five papers published in peer-reviewed journals or professional conference proceedings, thirty-eight papers published in research anthologies (principally in Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers), four papers on physiological variables, and twenty-one theoretical and review papers.
Papers Published in Peer Reviewed Journals or Professional Conference Proceedings
2023. Dillbeck, M. C., & Cavanaugh, K. L. (2023). Empirical Evaluation of the Possible Contribution of Group Practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program to Reduction in Drug-Related Mortality. Medicina, 59, 1-32.
2022. Orme-Johnson, D. W., Cavanaugh, K. L., Dillbeck, M. C., & Goodman, R. S. (2022). Field-effects of consciousness: A seventeen-year study of the effects of group practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs on reducing national stress in the United States. World Journal of Social Science, 9(2), 1-38.
2022. Cavanaugh, K. L., Dillbeck, M. C., & Orme-Johnson, D. W. (2022). Evaluating a field theory of consciousness and social change: Group: Practice of transcendental meditation and homicide trends. Studies in Asian Social Science, 8(1), 1-32.
2019. Gelderloos, P., Cavanaugh K.L., Frid, M. & Xue, X. (2019). Warming U.S.-Soviet relations during the Cold War as measured by U.S. presidential statements: Impact of the group practice of the Transcendental Meditation-Sidhi program. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 9, 93-134.
2019. Fergusson, L., & Cavanaugh, K. L. (2019). Socio-political violence in Cambodia between 1990 and 2008: An explanatory mixed methods study of social coherence. Studies in Asian Social Science, 6(2), 1-45.
2018. Kenneth L. Cavanaugh, K. L., Gelderloos, P., & Dillbeck, M.C. (2018). Group practice of the Transcendental Meditation-Sidhi program and improved U.S.-Soviet relations. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 8, 125–164.
2017. Cavanaugh, K. L., & Dillbeck, M. C. (2017). Researching US urban murder rates and group practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program: Evaluation of a prospective quasi-experiment. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 5, 11-40.
2017. Dillbeck MC, Cavanaugh KL. (2017). Group Practice of the Transcendental Meditation® and TM-Sidhi® Program and Reductions in Infant Mortality and Drug-Related Death: A Quasi-Experimental Analysis. SAGE Open, January-March:1-15.
2017. Cavanaugh KL, Dillbeck MC. (2017). Field Effects of Consciousness and Reduction in U.S. Urban Murder Rates: Evaluation of a Prospective Quasi-Experiment. Journal of Health and Environmental Research, 3(3-1):32-43.
2017. Cavanaugh KL, Dillbeck MC. (2017). The contribution of proposed field effects of consciousness to the prevention of U.S. accidental fatalities: Theory and empirical tests. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 24(1-2):53–86.
2017. Hatchard, G., & Cavanaugh, K. L. (2017). The Effect of Coherent Collective Consciousness on National Quality of Life and Economic Performance Indicators—An Analysis of the IMD Index of National Competitive Advantage. Journal of Health and Environmental Research, 3(3-1):16-31.
2016. Fergusson L. (2016). The impact of Maharishi Vedic University on Cambodian economic and social indicators from 1980 to 2015. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 2:77-135.
2016. Fergusson, L. (2016). Vedic science-based education, poverty removal and social well-being: A case history of Cambodia from 1980 to 2015. Journal of Indian Education (Journal of the National Council of Educational Research and Training), 41(4), 16-45.
2016. Orme-Johnson DW. (2016). Factor analysis of social indicators in the Middle East: Effects of cultural, military, political, and climatic events and group practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 1(1).
2016. Dillbeck MC, Cavanaugh KL. (2016). Societal violence and collective consciousness: Reduction of U.S. homicide and urban violent crime rates. SAGE Open, April-June:1-16.
2005. Davies, J. L., and C. N. Alexander (2005). Alleviating political violence through reducing collective tension: Impact Assessment analysis of the Lebanon war. Journal of Social Behavior and Personality, 2005, 17: 285-338.
2003. Orme-Johnson, D. W., M. C. Dillbeck, C. N. Alexander, H. M. Chandler, and R. W. Cranson (2003). Effects of large assemblies of participants in the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program on reducing international conflict and terrorism. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 36 (1/2/3/4):283-302.
1999. J. S. Hagelin, M.V. Rainforth, D. W. Orme-Johnson, K. L. Cavanaugh, C. N. Alexander, S. F. Shatkin, et al. (1999). Effects of group practice of the Transcendental Meditation program on preventing violent crime in Washington, DC: Results of the National Demonstration Project, June–July 1993. Social Indicators Research, 47(2):153-201.
1997. Goodman R. S., D. W. Orme-Johnson, M. S. Rainforth, and D. H. Goodman (1997). Transforming political institutions through individual and collective consciousness: The Maharishi Effect and government. Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association; Washington, D.C.
1996. Hatchard, G. D., A. J. Deans, K. L. Cavanaugh, and D. W. Orme-Johnson (1996). The Maharishi Effect: A model for social improvement. Time series analysis of a phase transition to reduced crime in Merseyside metropolitan area. Psychology, Crime & Law; 2(3):165-174.
1996. Dillbeck, M. C., and M. V. Rainforth (1996). Impact assessment analysis of behavioral quality of life indices: Effects of group practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Social Statistics Section,38–43.
1995. Assimakis P., and M. C. Dillbeck (1995). Time series analysis of improved quality of life in Canada: Social change, collective consciousness, and the TM-Sidhi program. Psychological Reports, 76:1171-1193.
1992. Cavanaugh, K. L. (1992). Maharishi’s Vedic Science and Technology: Promoting economic development and world peace. Modern Science and Vedic Science; 5(1-2):172-181.
1990. Orme-Johnson, D. W., C. N. Alexander, and J. L. Davies (1990). The effects of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field: Reply to a methodological critique. Journal of Conflict Resolution, 34:756–768.
1990. Gelderloos, P., K. L. Cavanaugh, and J. L. Davies (1990). The dynamics of U.S.-Soviet relations, 1979–1986: A simultaneous transfer function analysis of U.S.-Soviet relations: A test of the Maharishi Effect. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Social Statistics Section, 297–302.
1990. Dillbeck, M. C. (1990).Test of a field theory of consciousness and social change: Time series analysis of participation in the TM-Sidhi program and reduction of violent death in the U.S. Social Indicators Research, 22:399–418.
1990. Reeks, D. (1990). Improved Quality of Life in Iowa through the Maharishi Effect. Dissertation Abstracts International, 51(12):6155B.
1989. Cavanaugh K. L., K. D. King, and C. Ertuna (1989). A multiple-input transfer function model of Okun’s misery index: An empirical test of the Maharishi Effect. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Business and Economics Statistics Section:565-570.
1989. Cavanaugh, K. L., K. D. King, and B. D. Titus (1989). Consciousness and the quality of economic life: empirical research on the macroeconomic effects of the collective practice of Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program. Proceedings of the Midwest Management Society (Chicago, IL: Midwest Management Society), 183-190.
1988. Orme-Johnson, D. W., C. N. Alexander, J. L. Davies, H. M. Chandler, and W. E. Larimore (1988). International peace project in the Middle East: The effect of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field. Journal of Conflict Resolution, 32(4):776–812.
1988. Cavanaugh, K. L. and K. D. King. (1988). Simultaneous transfer function analysis of Okun’s misery index: improvements in the economic quality of life through Maharishi’s Vedic Science and technology of consciousness. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Business and Economics Statistics Section.
1988. Gelderloos, P., M. J. Frid, P. H. Goddard, X. Xue, and S. A. Löliger (1988). Creating world peace through the collective practice of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field: Improved U.S.-Soviet relations. Social Science Perspectives Journal, 2(4):80–94.
1988. Dillbeck, M. C., C. B. Banus, C. Polanzi, and G. S. Landrith III. (1988) Test of a field model of consciousness and social change: The Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program and decreased urban crime. The Journal of Mind and Behavior, 9(4):457–486.
1988. Orme-Johnson, D. W., and P. Gelderloos (1988).The long-term effects of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field on the quality of life in the United States (1960 to 1983). Social Science Perspectives Journal, 2(4):127-146.
1987. Dillbeck, M. C., K. L. Cavanaugh, T. Glenn, D. W. Orme-Johnson, and V. Mittlefehldt (1987). Consciousness as a field: The Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program and changes in social indicators. The Journal of Mind and Behavior, 8(1):67–104.
1987. Cavanaugh, K. L. (1987). Time series analysis of U.S. and Canadian inflation and unemployment: A test of a field-theoretic hypothesis. Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Business and Economics Statistics Section, 799-904.
1981. Dillbeck, M. C., G. S. Landrith III, and D. W. Orme-Johnson (1981).The Transcendental Meditation program and crime rate change in a sample of forty-eight cities. Journal of Crime and Justice, 4:25–4
Papers Published in Research Anthologies
1989. Alexander, C. N., T. M. Nader, K. L. Cavanaugh, J. L. Davies, M. C. Dillbeck, R. J. Kfoury, et al. (1989). The effect of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field on the war in Lebanon: A time series analysis of the influence of international and national coherence creating assemblies. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers 2687-2714.
1989. Davies, J. L., and C. N. Alexander. (1989) The Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field and improved quality of life in the United States: A study of the First World Peace Assembly, Amherst, Massachusetts, 1979. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2549-2563.
1989. Nader, T. M., C. N. Alexander, and J. L. Davies. (1989). The Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field and reduction of armed conflict: A comparative, longitudinal study of Lebanese villages. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2623-2634.
1989. Orme-Johnson, D. W., K. L. Cavanaugh, C. N. Alexander, P. Gelderloos, M. C. Dillbeck, A. G. Lanford, et al. (1989).The influence of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field on world events and global social indicators: The effects of the Taste of Utopia Assembly. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2730-2762.
1989. Orme-Johnson, D. W., M. C. Dillbeck, J. G. Bousquet, and C. N. Alexander. (1989).An experimental analysis of the application of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field in major world trouble spots: Increased harmony in international affairs. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2532-2548.
1989. Burgmans, W. H. P. M., A. T. Van Der Burgt, F. P. T. Langenkamp, and J. H. Verstagen. (1989).Sociological effects of the group dynamics of consciousness: Decrease of crime and traffic accidents in Holland. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2566-2582.
1989. Dillbeck, M. C. (1989).The Transcendental Meditation program and a compound probability model as predictors of crime rate change. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2496-2514.
1989. Hatchard, G. Influence of the Transcendental Meditation program on crime rate in suburban Cleveland. (1989). Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4,1199-1204.
1989. Lanford, A. G. (1989). Reduction in homicide in Washington, D. C. through the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field, 1980-83: A time series analysis. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2600-2608.
1989. Beresford, M. S., and G. Clements. (1989).The group dynamics of consciousness and the U.K. stock market. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2616-2622.
1989. Cavanaugh, K. L., D. W. Orme-Johnson, and P. Gelderloos. (1989). The effect of the Taste of Utopia Assembly on the World index of international stock prices. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2715-2729
1989. Dillbeck, M. C., W. E. Larimore, and R. K. Wallace. (1989). A time series analysis of the effect of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field: Reduction of traffic fatalities in the United States. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2589-2599.
1989. Landrith III, G. S., and M. C. Dillbeck (1989). The growth of coherence in society through the Maharishi Effect: Reduced rates of suicides and auto accidents. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2479-2486.
1989. Lanford, A. G. (1989).The effect of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field on stock prices of Washington, D.C. area based corporations, 1980-83: A time series analysis. Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program: Collected Papers, 4, 2609-2615.
1984. Dillbeck, M. C., Larimore, W. E., & Wallace, R. K. (1984). A time series analysis of the effect of the Maharishi Technology of the Unified Field: Reduction of traffic fatalities in the United States. Scientific research on the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programme: Collected papers, 4, 2589-2599.
1983. Dillbeck, M. C.; Foss, A. P. O.; and Zimmermann, W. J. (1983). Maharishi’s Global Ideal Society Campaign: Improved quality of life in Rhode Island through the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program. Scientific research on the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programme: Collected Papers, 4, 2521-2531.
1977. Borland, C. L., and G. S. Landrith III. (1977). Improved quality of life through the Transcendental Meditation program: Decreased crime rate. Scientific Research on the Transcendental Meditation Program : Collected Papers 1, 651-658.
Papers on Physiological Effects
2005. Walton, K. G., K. L. Cavanaugh, and N. D. Pugh (2005). Effect of group practice of the Transcendental Meditation program on biochemical indicators of stress in non-meditators: A prospective time series study. Journal of Social Behavior and Personality 2005;17(1):339-376.
1989. Travis, F. T., and D. W. Orme-Johnson (1989). Field model of consciousness: EEG coherence changes as indicators of field effects. International Journal of Neuroscience 1989; 49:203-211.
1988. Pugh, N. D., K. G. Walton, and K. L. Cavanaugh (1988). Can time series analysis of serotonin turnover test the theory that consciousness is a field? Society of Neuroscience Abstracts 1988; 14:372.
1982. Orme-Johnson, D. W., M. C. Dillbeck, R. K. Wallace, G. S. Landrith. (1982). Intersubject EEG coherence: Is consciousness a field? International Journal of Neuroscience 1982; 16:203-209.
Reviews, Theoretical Papers, and Critiques
2018. Orme-Johnson, D. W., & Fergusson, L. (2018). Global impact of the Maharishi Effect from 1974 to 2017: Theory and research. Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute, 8, 13–79.
2009. Leffler, D. (2009). A new role for the military: Preventing enemies from arising—reviving an ancient approach to peace. Journal of Management and Social Sciences, 5, 153–162.
2005. Orme-Johnson, D. W. (2005). Section introduction: Collective Consciousness and Peace Studies. Journal of Social Behavior and Personality 2005; 36(1/2/3/4):277-283.
2005. Orme-Johnson, D. W. (2005). Preventing crime though the Maharishi Effect. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 2005; 36(1/2/3/4): 257-281.
2005. Brown, C. L. (2005). Overcoming barriers to use of promising research among elite Middle East policy groups. Social Behavior and Personality, 489-544.
2001. Goodman, R. S., D. H. Goodman, and R. Wolfson (2001). A consciousness-based approach to human security. Perspectives on Human Security. Ed. M. V. Naidu. Brandon, Manitoba, Canada: Canadian Peace Research and Education Association, 2001:189-210.
1999. Leffler, D. R., K. Kleinschnitz, & K. G. Walton (1999). An alternative to military violence and fear-based deterrence: Twenty years of research on the Maharishi Effect. Security and Political Risk Analysis (SAPRA) India, 1999. Available at: http://www.subcontinent.com/sapra/military/m_1999_05_01.html
1997. Orme-Johnson, D. W. (1997). Transcendental Meditation as an epidemiological approach to drug and alcohol abuse: Theory, research, and financial impact evaluation. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly 1994; 11:119-165.
1997. Leffler, D. R. (1997) A Vedic approach to military defense: Reducing collective stress through the field effects of consciousness. Doctoral Dissertation, The Union Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1997. Dissertation Abstracts International 1997; 58(08):3298A. Available at: http://www.davidleffler.com/doctoraldissertation.html
1997. Kleinschnitz, K. G. (1997). An Investigation into Field Effects of Consciousness from the Perspective of Maharishi’s Vedic Science and Physics, 1997, Maharishi University of Management, Dissertation Abstracts International UMI 9713470.
1992. Orme-Johnson, D. W. (1992). Theory and research on conflict resolution through the Maharishi Effect. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1992; 5(1-2):76-98.
1992. Orme-Johnson, D. W. (1992). Introduction to the proceedings of the conference on approaches to creating stable world peace. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1992; 5(1-2):1-30.
1992. Morris, B. (1992). Maharishi’s Vedic Science and Technology: The only way to create world peace. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1992; 5(1-2):199-297.
1992. Hagelin, J. S. (1992). Achieving world peace through a new science and technology. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1992; 5(1-2):48-75.
1992. Alexander, C. N. (1992). Peaceful body, peaceful mind, peaceful world. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1992; 5(1-2):150-163.
1990. Schrodt, P. (1990). Methodological critique of ‘International peace project in the Middle East.’ Journal of Conflict Resolution 1990; 34:756-768.
1990. Edwards, D. V. (1990). On consciousness-centered social conflict theory: The case of the Maharishi technology of the unified field. American Psychological Association; 1990; Boston.
1988. Russett, B. (1988). Editor’s comment. Journal of Conflict Resolution 1988; 32(4):773-775.
1988. Duval R. (1988). TM or not TM? Journal of Conflict Resolution 1988; 32(4):813-817.
1987. Orme-Johnson, D. W., and M. C. Dillbeck.(1987). Maharishi’s program to create world peace: Theory and research. Modern Science and Vedic Science 1987; 1:206-259.
1982. Orme-Johnson, D. W., and M. C. Dillbeck (1982). Statement of David Orme-Johnson. Proposals to establish a U.S. Academy of Peace: Proceedings of the hearing before the Subcommittees on International Security and Scientific Affairs and on International Operations of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education of the Committee on Education and Labor, House of Representatives, Ninety-Seventh Congress, Second Session, on bills H.R. 5088 and H.R. 6182, 21 July 1982; Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1982:241-250.
24 Journals where Maharishi Effect studies have been published
Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association
Criminal Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention
Dissertation Abstracts International
Journal of Conflict Resolution 2
Journal of Consciousness Studies
Journal of Crime and Justice
Journal of Health and Environmental Research
Journal of Indian Education (Journal of the National Council of Educational Research and Training
Journal of Maharishi Vedic Research Institute 5
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation
Journal of Social Behavior and Personality
Medicina
Modern Science and Vedic Science
Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Business and Economics Statistics Section 2
Proceedings of the American Statistical Association, Social Statistics Section 2
Proceedings of the Midwest Management Society
Psychological Reports
Psychology, Crime & Law
SAGE Open2
Social Indicators Research
Social Indicators Research
Social Science Perspectives Journal 2
The Journal of Mind and Behavior 2
World Journal of Social Science
1. Most of these papers are reprinted in the Scientific Research on Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Programme: Collected Papers (Vols. 1-5), which contains 3,732 pages of original research. The Collected Papers are available from Maharishi University of Management Press and can be ordered by clicking on the link below.
http://www.mum.edu/mumpress/p_b01-5.html
