Mindfulness-Based Heroism: Creating Enlightened Heroes

What is it about?

Mindfulness and the science of heroism are both interested in selfless altruism. There is increasing evidence that mindfulness training delivers heroically relevant qualities such as increased attentional functioning, greater sensory awareness and conflict monitoring, increased cognitive control, reduced fear response, and an increase in loving kindness and self-sacrificing behaviors. Based on the concept of a “no self,” traditional mindfulness and its focus on enlightenment and selfless service appears suited to the creation of heroic character. This paper explores the theory, practices, and scientific outcomes of mindfulness. It finds that heroically relevant qualities are trainable with mindfulness techniques and that the experience of selflessness and service of others (the enlightened hero) may be within our grasp.

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Why is it important?

Whilst the field of mindfulness and the emerging science of heroism have a common interest in the causes and conditions of selfless altruism though up to this point there has been little cross-pollination. This seminal paper bridges the much needed gap between the two fields and offers a way forward for both disciplines to engage. It also investigates how the traditional methods of mindfulness can deliver the the 'no self' enlightenment experience within which heroism is a spontaneous effect.

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