Defining Contemplative Science: The Metacognitive Self-Regulatory Capacity of the Mind, Context of Meditation Practice and Modes of Existential Awareness
Frontiers in Psychology November 17, 2016 D. Dorjee 124 citations
The term 'contemplative' is used frequently in meditation research, but there is no consensus on its definition. This paper proposes an alternative approach: contemplative science as the interdisciplinary study of the metacognitive self-regulatory capacity (MSRC) of the mind and associated modes of existential awareness (MEA), modulated by motivational, intentional, and contextual factors. The MSRC enables introspective awareness and self-regulation for well-being. Changes in conceptual processing are hypothesized to mediate between MSRC, motivational factors, and shifts in MEA. This framework aims to reduce terminological confusion, include varied contemplative practices, and encourage development of a comprehensive theory that recognizes first- and second-person methods.