Compassion in context: A contemplative neuroscience perspective on expanding compassion beyond the individual
International Journal of Wellbeing March 4, 2026 Alea C. Skwara
Measuring compassion at a population level requires expanding beyond individualistic views to consider how it manifests in relationships, communities, and societies. This involves agreeing on a flexible definition that spans multiple levels of analysis and operationalizing ways to identify and quantify compassion at each level. Drawing on insights from contemplative studies, psychology, and neuroscience, the paper addresses challenges such as measuring a latent and emergent phenomenon, spanning levels of analysis, and defining compassionate action. Concepts of interdependence and common humanity may help identify key population-level indicators. Theoretical models merging the epidemiological triad with compassion science are proposed to guide future study.