Robinson, Oliver C. ORCID: 0000-0002-6758-2223 (2020) A dialectical approach to understanding the relationship between science and spirituality: The MODI model. Journal for the Study of Spirituality, 10 (1). pp. 15-28. ISSN 2044-0243 (Print), 2044-0251 (Online) (doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/20440243.2020.1726045)

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Abstract

The MODI model is a dialectical way of comprehending the complementary relationship between science and spirituality. The model is founded on the notion that science and spirituality are domains of enquiry that both exemplify the values of modernity: open and embodied enquiry; the questioning of authority; and empowerment of the individual. The model captures the difference between science and spirituality by way of seven conceptual polarities: outer-inner; impersonal-personal; thinking-feeling; empirical-transcendental; mechanistic-purposive; verbal-ineffable; and explanation-contemplation. At the point where these dialectics overlap, the MODI model proposes an ‘interface space’ where science and spirituality overlap and combine. I further suggest that these seven polarities capture aspects of a fundamental ‘head-heart’ duality in human knowing, which is represented in a range of existing theories across philosophical, psychological and neurological levels. The model has predictive power and can help frame the growing interaction between science and spirituality that is a central feature of the contemporary world.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Science, spirituality, dialectical, MODI model
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Human Sciences (HUM) Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development > Centre for Mental Health
Last Modified:	11 Aug 2021 01:38
URI:	http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/27739

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