From Meditative States to Lasting Transformation: Awareness of Nonduality in Contemplative Science

Abstract

Nondual awareness and nonduality have been discussed increasing in the psychological literature in the context of mindfulness-based interventions. Particularly later generations of such programs increasingly link mindfulness practice to spirituality or Buddhist philosophy. For that reason, terms related to nonduality, including nondualism and nondual awareness, are being discussed for a broader audience. Scientific communication requires clear definitions, and the purpose of this conceptual article is to clarify the differences between various terms related to nonduality. A commonly discussed type of awareness in meditation research is nondual awareness. While this involves dissolution of subject and object in a similar vein as nondualism, the latter is a philosophical framework. In addition to fostering nondual awareness states, long-term Buddhist practitioners also tend to develop a more trait-like awareness of nonduality, which is a way of relating to everyday experiences based on core spiritual insights.

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