A new era for mind studies: training investigators in both scientific and contemplative methods of inquiry
Summary
Combining modern neuroscience's quantitative methods with ancient contemplative practices could enhance the understanding of the mind. Including expert contemplative practitioners as co-investigators in scientific studies may lead to significant benefits in studying mental events and brain activity.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | The inclusion of expert contemplative practitioners as co-investigators could greatly benefit the scientific study of the mind. |
|---|
Abstract
While modern neuroscience relies on objective, quantitative methods for measuring how mental events manifest as brain activity, ancient contemplative traditions have used first-person introspective practices to gain a greater understanding of the mind. It is now possible to combine these different approaches, hopefully in a mutually enriching, synergistic way. The scientific study of the mind would benefit immensely from including expert contemplative practitioners, not only as study participants, but as full-fledged co-investigators.