Incorporating Buddhist wisdom practices into mindfulness-based interventions may enhance prosocial behavior through mechanisms such as developing a sense of interdependence and common humanity, fostering altruistic desire, and experiencing oneness. A systematic review of 12 studies with 2,185 participants found suggestive evidence for these effects, but raised concerns about overreliance on self-report measures and difficulty isolating the effects of specific meditation practices. The findings reinforce the perspective that wisdom-based meditation practices contribute to prosocial behavior, but future studies should use diverse measures including real-world scenarios.
People high in neuroticism showed greater gains in prosocial behavior after a mindfulness intervention that included wisdom-based practices (contemplations on interdependence and the emptiness of self) along with concentration and ethics practices, compared to a similar intervention without the wisdom component or a waitlist control. High agreeableness improved well-being outcomes for both mindfulness interventions, while high openness improved well-being only for the intervention that included wisdom practices. The findings suggest that tailoring mindfulness programs to personality traits, especially by adding wisdom-based elements, may enhance their effectiveness for individuals prone to interpersonal sensitivity and self-protective tendencies.
The concept of enlightenment, often linked to profound insights into self and reality, is examined through the lens of non-dualism, emphasizing the dissolution of an independent, permanent self and the emergence of self-transcendent experiences. These experiences involve universal oneness, benevolence, compassion, and feelings of happiness and love. The chapter critically evaluates practices proposed to facilitate such states, including near-death experiences, insight meditation, and psychedelic substances. By reviewing empirical studies, it assesses their role in promoting well-being and positive psychological and behavioral effects, aiming to illuminate pathways to enlightenment and foster a more compassionate human existence.