A new era for mind studies: training investigators in both scientific and contemplative methods of inquiry

Modern neuroscience uses objective, quantitative methods to measure how mental events correspond to brain activity, while ancient contemplative traditions have relied on first-person introspective practices to understand the mind. Combining these approaches could be mutually enriching and synergistic. The scientific study of the mind would benefit greatly from including expert contemplative practitioners not only as study participants but as full co-investigators.

Study at a glance

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.