By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.
In today’s Research News article “Spirituality of Science: Implications for Meaning, Well-Being, and Learning” (See summary below or view the full text of the study at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11827284/ ) Preston and colleagues examined ‘spirituality of science: feelings of meaning, awe, and connection derived through scientific ideas.’ And found that it predicted meaning in life and emotional well-being even in atheists and agnostics.
Spirituality extends beyond religion.
CMCS – Center for Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies
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Study Summary
Preston JL, Coleman TJ 3rd, Shin F. Spirituality of Science: Implications for Meaning, Well-Being, and Learning. Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2025 Apr;51(4):632-643. doi: 10.1177/01461672231191356. Epub 2023 Aug 25. PMID: 37632126; PMCID: PMC11827284.
Abstract
Scientists often refer to spiritual experiences with science. This research addresses this unique component of science attitudes—spirituality of science: feelings of meaning, awe, and connection derived through scientific ideas. Three studies (N = 1,197) examined individual differences in Spirituality of Science (SoS) and its benefits for well-being, meaning, and learning. Spirituality of Science was related to belief in science, but unlike other science attitudes, spirituality of science was also associated with trait awe and general spirituality (Study 1). spirituality of science also predicted meaning in life and emotional well-being in a group of atheists and agnostics, showing that scientific sources of spirituality can provide similar psychological benefits as religious spirituality (Study 2). Finally, Spirituality of Science predicted stronger engagement and recall of scientific information (Study 3). Results provide support for an experience of spirituality related to science, with benefits for meaning, well-being, and learning.