What is experientialism?

Answer

Experientialism is the philosophy or approach to life that views experience as the most valuable source of knowledge. While some experientialists may consider other ways of knowing, experience holds the utmost importance. In practice, many individuals live according to this principle, whether or not they explicitly recognize experientialism as their “philosophy” or “worldview.” Ultimately, experientialism places the individual—and their interpretation of their experience—as the ultimate authority for themselves.

Experientialism aligns with the postmodern rejection of absolutes. While some individuals may generalize universal principles based on limited experiences (e.g., “I had a bad meal at a restaurant once, so that restaurant must always serve bad food”), most experientialists are content to derive personal knowledge from their experiences without making broad claims (e.g., “My experience has shown me that cheating on taxes is unwise, but I refrain from judging others based on their differing experiences”).

Undoubtedly, experience can serve as a valuable knowledge source. Trial and error, rooted in experience, is a common method of learning. Many individuals learn most effectively not just by hearing about a subject but also by experiencing it firsthand. This is why school field trips hold educational value. However, each person’s experience is inherently limited, and relying solely on experience for truth is insufficient. Some subjects lie entirely beyond our experiential reach. For instance, biblical teachings on heaven and hell present information about realms and concepts we cannot encounter in our lives. To understand such topics, we must look to sources beyond our own experiences. Consequently, some may dismiss notions like heaven and hell precisely because they transcend our experiential understanding.

In some branches of the church, Charismatic theology places more emphasis on experience than on doctrinal teaching, sometimes bringing together Charismatics of significantly different and even contradictory beliefs. This form of experientialism becomes spiritually risky when someone disregards what the Bible says in favor of a “more authentic” personal experience.

Christian witnessing is rooted in sharing our personal encounter with what the Lord has done for us. Ultimately, a witness recounts what he or she has witnessed “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20). As Asaph wrote, “As for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will recount all your deeds” “But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, That I may declare all thy works.” (Psalm 73:28). Furthermore, the Bible encourages individuals to taste and see that the LORD is good: Blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (Psalm 34:8).

Learning from experience is valuable. The school of hard knocks has produced many distinguished graduates. However, relying solely (or primarily) on limited personal experience as the main source of knowledge is an insufficient basis for understanding. God has provided us with His Word so that we can gain insight into things we may never experience, interpret our experiences correctly, and learn about other matters without the need to experience them.