Contemplative Studies is an innovative, interdisciplinary, and intercultural field of research that explores contemplative experience and its practices, as well as the distinctive forms of knowledge and personal and communal transformations they generate.
The methodology that defines Contemplative Studies—and reveals its vast potential—integrates multiple approaches into a single field. Third-person research, which frames the historical-religious, philosophical, sociological, psychological, and neuroscientific foundations of contemplative experience, is complemented and interwoven with first-person phenomenological inquiry. The latter is grounded in contemplative traditions and involves introspective observation of consciousness, its contents, and its states, in a critical and non-sectarian manner. Added to this is the second-person approach, referring to the dialogical and intersubjective dimension, a fundamental tool for collaborative and interdisciplinary investigation of contemplative experience.
The Centro Studi aims to contribute to this growing field by supporting the Master’s program in Contemplative Studies—already offered in partnership with the University of Padua—and by organizing an international conference designed for students and all those interested in these themes. From June 19 to 23, 2024, in Padua, the second annual conference of the International Society for Contemplative Research will take place. This event is the result of a dynamic collaboration involving the Centro Studi, ISCR, Mind and Life Europe, and the University of Padua (Master in Contemplative Studies).
It will be a valuable opportunity to engage directly with the cutting-edge research and debates that define the field of Contemplative Studies, and to meet some of the leading international figures in this domain.
More details coming soon!
