Ethics, Transparency, and Diversity in Mindfulness Programs

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are commonly framed as secular. Yet, this chapter argues, many MBIs, including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), as well as the multivalent term “mindfulness” itself, continue to reflect their Buddhist ethical foundations. Buddhist ethics remain implicit, even if not explicit, in MBIs, which often claim to cultivate moral and ethical virtues such as compassion. This chapter argues that if MBIs are not fully secular, there should be transparency about this fact—even if transparency comes at the expense of no longer reaping benefits of being perceived as secular. The secular framing of MBIs compromises transparency: through scientific claims that obscure religious dimensions, intentional tactics (disguise, script, Trojan horse, stealth Buddhism, skillful means), and unintentional conflation of Buddhist with universal ideals. Although the benefits of mindfulness may seem to justify any intentional or unintentional lapses in transparency, this chapter argues that unethical processes can taint results, potentially resulting in more harm than good. The ethical grounds for transparency may be articulated using principles internal or external to a Buddhist framework: (1) fidelity to the Noble Eightfold Path, including right mindfulness, right intention, and right speech; (2) intellectual integrity, cultural diversity (recognizing compassion as a contested value, adhering to professional ethical standards, sensitivity to risks of cultural appropriation and cultural imperialism), and informed consent (taking into account the potential for adverse effects, religious effects, or coercion).