Season 17, Episode 36: The Overview Effect and Cosmic Perspective

Hey StarTalkians! Season 17, episode 36 saw Neil conducting a two-part interview with Steven Spielberg – yes, the Steven Spielberg – and screenwriter David Koepp about their new movie, Disclosure Day. Late in the discussion with David, they spoke about the “overview effect” and the cosmic perspective the movie aimed to elicit in viewers:

Disclosure Day with Steven Spielberg & David Koepp - StarTalk Radio

(from 43:00)

The overview effect is a well-known experience of people who’ve been out into space, and researchers are wondering whether this shift in perspective can have impacts back here on Earth.

The Overview Effect Explained

Originally coined by author Frank White, the “overview effect” describes the shift in perspective experienced by people who’ve seen the Earth from space. It can be a powerful and emotional experience, often with a focus on the fragility of the planet and the interconnectedness of all humans.

Frank White explains in a 1987 paper– based on interviews with astronauts – that most space travellers do experience the overview effect. He emphasizes that people know intellectually that the Earth is a single, unified system without borders, but that going into space allows them to experience this in a more impactful, visceral way.

He paraphrases Apollo 9 astronaut Russell L. Schweickart, who said that orbiting the planet in 90 minutes brings the realization that your identity is with the whole planet.

He also echoes Neil’s point about “cosmic perspective,” although he calls it “the Universal Insight” He points out that these more profound experiences tend to come from longer journeys (for instance, to the moon).

A 2016 paper argues that this sense of awe comes from two specific aspects:

1) The juxtaposition of the Earth against the black vacuum of space.

2) Viewing familiar landmarks from a radically different perspective.

Reading through quotes from people who’ve had this experience drives home how profoundly it affects them. In particular, it seems to elicit a desire to protect the environment and create a united humanity.

How the Overview Effect Can Change Things Back on Earth

Some research suggests that this shift in perspective leads to more pro-environmental views. Only two out of 14 space travellers’ attitudes and behaviours didn’t change after their experience, and 64% reported a moderate or high change in environmental behaviours.

While most of us won’t have this experience in space, researchers are trying to recreate it with virtual reality.