Proposed research

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Proposed Research in the Science of Compassion

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Seeking a better Compassion Definition

The main emphasis of this website has been to explore, and present to the public, the broad range of phenomena that fall under the definition of compassion. Data is being collected from the public regarding their varied definitions of compassion using a survey. These varied compassion phenomena are placed all within the construct of compassion using the Theory of Compassion Development. Underlying the Theory of Compassion Development is a philosophy of compassion and basic assumptions about compssion. A more accurate definition of compassion is needed if compassion research, for example the topics listed below, is to have construct validity. In addition a more accurate compassion definition will help the teaching of compassion. The definition should fit what our society defines as compassion.

The science of compassion is in its infancy. What is listed here are some suggestions on the research that is needed to develop the science further.

Much of the research that has been done on compassion has focused on individuals, their state of mind, and their self reporting of compassion related feelings. But compassion is defined as having relational features, meaning that one person is acting in a way that affects the well being of another. These relational features are touched upon in The Helping Relationship, but they need to be examined in experimental settings - for example the neurological and physical characteristics could be measured of a couple before, during and after enterring the compassion space. In addition there is often mutuality in the compassion experience, meaning that both the giver and the receiver of compassion experience a shift in well being. This mutuality needs to be explored in more detail. This can be done using both qualitative and quantitative approaches.

Describe the Relational Features of Compassion

Some research has been done on the nature of well being in connection to compassion and this research is presented on this website and associated links. What remains to be done is detailed research on pairs (practitioner and participant) before, during and after entering the compassion space.

Well Being and Compassion

Teaching Compassion

Compassion Development

Some research has been done on this and is presented on this website and associated links. What remains to be done is detailed research on 1) a compassion measurement tool based on a more accurate compassion definition, and 2) examination of various teaching approaches using a more accurate compassion measurement tool. Qualitative research may be used as an initial look at peoples experiences with compassion teaching.

Very little research has been done on the compassion development across the lifespan. What remains to be done is detailed research on how people learn to develop compassion, what aids that process AND to explore this with various age groups across settings.

The Compassion Information Institute is focused on this research.

Compassion and Religion

One of the projects the Compassion Information Institute has proposed is to develop a virtual reality compassion training tool. This project is outlined in on the A Clash of Cultures website.

Compassion has been, over the centuries, a foundational component within many of the world's greatest religions. Despite all the writing available, what is needed is more scholarly work that addresses the following: 1) the similarities and differences in understanding/practicing compassion across religions, 2) a detailed look at how the term compassion is used within each of the sacred texts, 3) a look at the common day practice of compassion within religious organizations, and 4) a scholarly work on Christian compassion that includes Christ like "witnessing". There are many Buddhist books that speak to compassion. What would also be nice is a scholarly summation of all that has been written on the subject from the Buddhist perspective. The word "compassion" is tossed around quite freely in the new and on the internet and often in connection with some religion. What is not clear is exactly what is meant by the use of that word based on their own sacred writings.

Compassion and "Flow"

The concept of "flow", or being "in the zone" - one with the moment, has been applied to sports accomplishments. Could the same idea be applied to the helping relationship? Could there be moments of "flow" in the helping relationship? What would they look like? Some of the writings on this website suggest that well developed compassion contains these "flow" moments and that they have a mutual effect on promoting well being. This is fertile ground for additional research which not only would elaborate on the details of compassion "flow" phenomenon but also their connections to experiences of mutual well being.

It has been proposed within the writings on this site that there is something called radiant compassion. It may have an effect on other living things, including humans, that can be measured.

The Effects of Radiant Compassion

It has been proposed within the writing on this site that compassion should not be confused with love and that the term love refers to human attachments that are not necessary for compassion but which are necessary for love. But the clarity of the distinction between the two needs research attention.

Compassion versus Love

The Compassion Information Institute is focused on this research.