Spiritual Practices Research Articles

Psychedelics as novel therapeutic agents for chronic pain: mechanisms and future perspectives

Chronic neuropathic pain is a significant public health issue affecting an estimated 1.5 billion individuals worldwide. The mechanisms underlying chronic pain are multifaceted and not fully understood. Chronic pain amplifies specific neural pathways through peripheral and central sensitization triggered by repeated exposure to noxious stimuli, ultimately resulting in physical and emotional pain. Traditional treatment options targeting these mechanisms, such as opioid and non-opioid analgesics, are associated with adverse effects, addiction, and suboptimal pain relief. Using psychedelics to treat chronic pain is an area of growing interest. While psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, mescaline, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine are primarily associated with recreational use or spiritual practices, emerging evidence suggests their potential therapeutic benefits for various mental health disorders, including chronic pain. Psychedelics alter pain perception by directly activating serotonin receptors, exerting anti-inflammatory effects, enhancing descending inhibition, opening a window of neuroplasticity, and facilitating synaptic remodeling. This review mainly elucidates the ongoing research regarding the psychedelic mechanisms of action, pharmacology, clinical applications, and therapeutic potential in treating neuropathic pain.

Exploring Gendered Relational Dynamics in Palliative Care: A Qualitative Study on Women Professional Caregivers in India.

The gendered dynamics in palliative care settings in India are deeply influenced by societal norms, which position caregiving primarily as a woman's responsibility. This study explores the experiences of women caregivers in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, to understand their challenges and strategies. This qualitative study used a narrative approach to investigate the lived experiences of 38 women caregivers from six palliative care institutions in Bengaluru. Semi-structured interviews conducted in Kannada captured the nuances of their caregiving roles. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes related to caregiving challenges and coping mechanisms. The study reveals that women caregivers face significant burdens due to societal expectations and institutional constraints, including resource shortages and limited professional development opportunities. Despite these challenges, the women demonstrated resilience through strong social networks, spiritual practices, and effective time management. However, relying on informal support systems highlights a gap in formal institutional support. The findings emphasise the need for comprehensive support systems within palliative care institutions that address the practical and cultural challenges of caregiving. Future research should include a more diverse sample, including male caregivers, and explore the evolving nature of caregiving challenges.

Dance of the Soul: Integrating Spirituality and Religious Practices in Dance/Movement Therapy

Dance of the Soul: Integrating Spirituality and Religious Practices in Dance/Movement Therapy

Abstract B172: Evidence of behavioral research before and during cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review

Abstract Introduction: Understanding the behavioral aspects of cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is crucial for developing effective interventions and improving outcomes, particularly during the peri-treatment phase. Synthesizing knowledge sets the stage for prioritizing cancer-focused research in SSA. Therefore, this scoping review aims to synthesize current knowledge on cancer behavioral research during the peri-treatment phase in SSA, focusing on the behavioral and psychosocial aspects of care. Method: Comprehensive literature searches were conducted across multiple databases and grey literature sources. Studies were selected if they included participants > 18 years old undergoing peri-treatment care, randomized controlled trials, or qualitative/quantitative methodologies focused on behavioral oncology. Only full-text articles published in English were included. Data from the selected studies were systematically extracted and organized. Results: A total of 1,897 cancer patients were included across 18 out of the 24 articles analyzed, with participants aged 8-80 years old. The studies mainly included participants recently diagnosed with cancer or undergoing treatment, covering various cancer types, including prostate, cervical, gastric, liver, and colon cancer, from stage I-III. Only three of the 24 studies referenced theoretical frameworks. Each study identified behavioral factors and outcomes among their sample population. Key findings across the studies underscored significant psychological distress manifested through a spectrum of emotional and psychosocial challenges, including poor social and psychological well-being, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and agoraphobia. Cultural influences, cost considerations, and non-interference of symptoms with day-to-day activities delayed healthcare seeking, especially among women. Despite these challenges, instances of psychological resilience were noted, driven by perceived social support, religiosity, hope, and optimism. The review highlighted the complex interplay between cultural norms, stigma, and health behaviors, with stigma often rooted in cultural beliefs. Spiritual beliefs and practices were central to many participants’ cancer journey, shaping their views on illness, treatment, and recovery. Key factors affecting cancer care include healthcare accessibility, financial limitations, social support networks, healthcare provider attitudes, family involvement in treatment decisions, and emotional support. Conclusion: The findings from this scoping review reveal significant psychological distress and barriers to care among cancer patients in SSA, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive interventions that addresses emotional, social, and cultural dimensions. This approach should integrate accessible mental health services, enhance social support networks, and promote culturally appropriate educational programs to reduce stigma and encourage timely healthcare-seeking. Citation Format: Opeyemi O. Bolajoko, Danneta S. Hooks, Motolani Adedipe, Jessica Saintibert, OluwaSeyi Toye, Clifton Sheri, Folakemi T Odedina. Evidence of behavioral research before and during cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B172.

Exploring the Role of Spirituality in Healing: A Case Study of Patients at Bekwai Municipal Hospital, Bekwai, Ghana

Spirituality and its relationship to health and healing has been a topic of interest across cultures and religious traditions. While spirituality is a broad concept, for many it involves a connection to a higher power or search for meaning and purpose. This study explored the role of spirituality in the healing process from the perspective of patients receiving care at Bekwai Municipal Hospital, Bekwai, Ghana. A mixed method approach was used, incorporating the administering of questionnaires and interviews with 58 patients from various religious and spiritual backgrounds, including Christianity, Islam, African Traditional Religion, and non-religious beliefs. The results showed high levels of spirituality among patients, with most engaging in spiritual or religious practices like prayer, meditation, and music to cope with illness. The study furthermore showed that the majority believed these practices positively contributed to their healing process. From the study, it was also established that while definitions of spirituality varied, common themes of inner peace, transcendence, and connection to a higher power emerged. Furthermore, it was noted that both religious and non-religious patients described drawing strength and meaning from their spiritual worldviews. Healthcare staff also acknowledged the importance of addressing patients’ spiritual needs. This study provides insights into how spirituality is a significant part of the healing experience for many patients in Ghana. By exploring diverse spiritual and religious perspectives, this study highlights opportunities for more holistic and culturally sensitive care that meets patients’ spiritual as well as medical needs. Further research could continue investigating the mechanisms through which spirituality may support health and well-being. Keywords: Religion, Spirituality, Patients, Healing

Aprender a ver y sentir lo invisible:

This article describes a progressive somatic learning process that aims to produce a body sensitive enough to interact with the non-human agents promoted in New Age and neopagan spiritual practices. Contemporary rituals organized at the archeological site in Carnac, France, are the empirical research subject of this ethnography. These rituals are approached as spaces for sensory learning where participants tune into their body in order to verify the effectiveness of the techniques. As shown in the analysis, the core elements of the somatic learning applied in the rituals include the incorporation of an alternative sensory language, body techniques, visualization, and somatic imaginaries.

The role of Confucian values in Korean administrative culture: a cultural-contextual perspective

ABSTRACT The Korean administrative culture and its philosophy have been developed through the philosophical underpinnings of religious and spiritual practices of Confucianism. This paper argues how, as an administrative culture, Confucian tradition has significantly impacted Korean bureaucrat’s and citizens’ behavioural and attitudinal patterns. The managerial values developed by Western countries still could not be absorbed and integrated with Korean administrative culture due to the strong ethical and cultural Confucian values. However, in contemporary times, there is a diminishing trend of public service motivation and an erosion of public trust towards public officials in Korea. Many aspects of bureaucracy have been standardised regardless of their applicability in the cultural context. Although the rule of law remains the universally accepted mode of governance, understanding the contextual or situated specificity of the role of religion in Asia Pacific states is significant as the world is reverting to traditions and culture. The conclusion offers that in rendering public services, public values shape the ethics or moral standards of the bureaucrats. The morality of Confucian values and ethics can complement in Korea’s public organisational behaviour and religion, which could be a way to achieve an impersonal ethical code in modern public governance.

The psychotherapeutic potential of tango dancing. A person-centered perspective

ABSTRACT This paper provides an autoethnographic exploration of the psychotherapeutic potential of Argentine tango dancing through a person-centered perspective. It delves into how tango facilitates personal growth, emotional awareness, and resilience by acting as a dynamic form of emotional and physical expression. The research examines the intricate communication dynamics inherent in the dance, highlighting tango’s unique ability to transcend verbal exchanges and create profound emotional connections. Tango demands mutual empathy, attunement, and responsiveness between dance partners, fostering therapeutic experiences akin to deep, trusting friendships. Additionally, it is argued that tango requires a level of emotional dedication comparable to spiritual practices, which makes it a powerful medium for continual personal and relational development. The findings suggest that the psychotherapeutic benefits of tango stem not only from its relational aspects but also from the individual’s willingness to engage deeply with the emotions it elicits. The research concludes that tango can be a profound conduit for personal transformation, provided that the dancer is open to its emotional and interpersonal challenges.

Responding to epidemics: the case of the Nguyễn Dynasty, focusing on the period 1802–1883

Abstract In the past, Vietnam was impacted by numerous epidemics, particularly during the Nguyễn Dynasty from 1802 to 1883. Based on data from the Đại Nam Thực Lục (1961) (The Veritable Records of the Great South), this article investigates the frequency and nature of these epidemics, identifies the types of common diseases at that time, and explores the underlying causes of these outbreaks. The study further examines the Nguyễn Dynasty's strategies for managing these health crises. During these outbreaks, the dynasty faced significant challenges, with frequent epidemics leading to high death rates, widespread social disruption, and economic decline. The dynasty's primary preventive measures, heavily reliant on spiritual practices like prayer, highlight the limited medical understanding at the time and the constraints of its socio-political framework. However, there was a progressive shift towards the incorporation of Western medical innovations, particularly in the vaccine approach to treat diseases like smallpox. This transition not only marked a critical evolution in the local healthcare approach but also set the stage for more systematic medical advancements in Vietnam during the colonial period (1884–1945).

Heart of Care: Embracing Grief and Growth in Oncology and Palliative Medicine

Introduction The emotional impact of patient loss in oncology and palliative care profoundly affects healthcare professionals. This study explores clinicians’ experiences, emotional reactions, and coping mechanisms in these fields, focusing on their professional and personal growth. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how healthcare professionals from different regions and with varying years of experience deal with patient loss, emphasizing cultural, social, and institutional influences on their coping strategies. Methods A mixed-methods approach combined qualitative and quantitative elements. Data were collected using a Microsoft® Forms© survey targeting oncology and palliative care healthcare professionals. The survey included questions on experiences with patient loss, coping strategies, personal and professional growth, and beliefs. Statistical methods and thematic analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data. Ethical approval was obtained, and the survey ensured participant anonymity and confidentiality. Results The survey received 125 responses from nineteen countries. Emotional reactions to patient loss were significant, with various coping strategies reported, including spiritual practices, self-care, and professional support groups. Personal and professional growth were key outcomes of dealing with patient loss. Themes like Emotional Impact, Coping Mechanisms, and Reflections on Death and Dying were prevalent. Analysis revealed no significant correlation between the time taken by the participants to complete the survey and years of healthcare experience. Conclusion Healthcare professionals in oncology and palliative care face significant emotional challenges due to patient loss. The study emphasizes the importance of diverse and effective coping mechanisms, the supportive role of personal beliefs and workplace environments, and the journey of personal and professional growth amidst these challenges. It highlights the resilience of healthcare workers and underscores the need for supportive systems in managing the emotional aspects of patient care.

Traditional Cancer Treatments in West Africa: Historical Practices, Current Approaches, and Future Directions

Cancer treatment in West Africa is shaped by a rich tapestry of traditional practices and modern approaches, reflecting both cultural heritage and contemporary medical advancements. This review explores the historical and current landscape of traditional cancer treatments in the region, emphasizing herbal remedies, spiritual practices, and the integration of traditional and modern medical approaches. Traditional cancer treatments often involve plant-based remedies such as African horned cucumber, baobab tree, and soursop, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties. Spiritual and ritualistic practices, including prayer, energy healing, and sacred rituals, offer holistic support, addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of illness. The review examines the integration of traditional and modern practices, highlighting the potential benefits of a collaborative approach while addressing challenges such as safety, efficacy, and cultural sensitivity. Research efforts are focused on validating traditional treatments through scientific studies, standardizing remedies, and ensuring safety. Socioeconomic and cultural factors significantly influence treatment choices, with traditional medicine often serving as a more accessible and culturally resonant option for many patients. Case studies and community experiences provide valuable insights into the practical application of these treatments and underscore the importance of respecting cultural contexts. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of traditional cancer treatments in West Africa, offering recommendations for future research and practice to enhance cancer care through an integrative and culturally sensitive approach. Keywords: Traditional Cancer Treatments, West Africa: Historical Practices.

Documenting Territorialidad: an intercultural approach to the provenance of Mapuche land records

Using critical place research and documentary methods, this article examines the Mapuche territorial cause in Chile and exposes the deficiencies of state-produced Mapuche land titles, known as Títulos de Merced, which are required for and (mis)used as evidence by Chile’s Indigenous land restitution program. The Títulos de Merced were granted to Mapuche families during and after the military occupation of Wallmapu (Mapuche territory), as documentation of their relocation to reducciones (reservations) between 1884 and 1929. However, these approximately 3000 titles do not fully represent Mapuche land claims. Instead, they were used by the newly formed Chilean state to reduce Mapuche territory to approximately 5% of its ancestral span, leaving undocumented much of the territories that communities were effectively using before the reduction process––what Mapuche claimants refer to as tierras antiguas or ancestral lands. Despite this, CONADI, the government agency that administers the land program, defines these titles as the primary sources of documentary evidence to prove Mapuche land dispossession. Therefore, not only are the Títulos de Merced not enough, but they negatively impact Mapuche land claims by purposefully reducing, once again, Mapuche ancestral territory, this time discursively. Mapuche claimants are paradoxically forced to validate claims to their ancestral land through documents that were designed to legitimize their dispossession. By examining the insufficiency and inappropriateness of the Títulos de Merced as evidence for Mapuche territorial claims, this paper proposes the intercultural practice of documenting territorialidad—the expression of cultural, economic, and spiritual Mapuche practices over the territory—in addition to colonial demarcations of land, as a form of producing/using evidence for Mapuche land restitution claims. Suggesting the mapu (land/territory) as provenance and territorialidad as evidence, this alternative documentary practice unsettles the Títulos de Merced as the only legitimate form of evidence for Mapuche land claims and theorizes interculturalidad—the recognition of and dialogue between diverse ways of knowing coexisting within the same territory—as a framework for thinking about provenance when working with Indigenous land records.

Breath Dhikr Therapy Training for NU Women in Sedayu Village, Gemuh District, Kendal Regency

Physical and mental health are two essential aspects that are interconnected in an individual's life. In Islamic teachings, maintaining a balance between the two is highly emphasized to achieve happiness in this world and the hereafter. Dhikr, the act of remembering Allah SWT, not only brings inner peace but also has the potential to improve mental and physical health when combined with proper breathing techniques. This study was conducted in Sedayu Village, Gemuh District, Kendal Regency, where many Muslimat members experience stress and physical fatigue due to their demanding routines. A dhikr-breathing therapy training was introduced as an integrative solution, combining spiritual practices with breathing techniques to enhance participants' well-being. The study employed a qualitative approach, involving 30 participants in the dhikr-breathing training. The results showed that the training effectively reduced stress levels and improved both physical and mental well-being. Although challenges in maintaining consistency were observed, most participants expressed a willingness to continue the practice. Therefore, dhikr-breathing has the potential for sustainable implementation as a practical method for improving the quality of life among Muslimat members.

Cultural Perspectives on Financial Accountability in a Balinese Traditional Village

Abstract This study aims to develop accountability practices that harmonize with the local spiritual culture in the Jimbaran traditional village. The current accountability practices are viewed not just as formal procedures but also as informal practices involving moral and ethical relationships with God. An ethnomethodological study integrated with Catur Marga culture as a critical perspective revealed the problem of delays in submitting accountability reports due to the shift in the cultural meaning of “ngayah” and the shift in the implementation of religious ceremonies from spiritual practices to more formal activities. These problems can be addressed by synergizing Catur Marga principles with accountability practices. First, involve community representatives, religious leaders, and traditional elders in the village's financial management, as in regular meetings to align the vision and mission to strengthen the “ngayah” motivation in governance and financial accountability. Second, the traditional village governments must consistently provide Dharmawacana and management accounting training to balance scientific knowledge with traditional spiritual–cultural knowledge. Last is the development of the Catur Marga-based Pararem, which regulates the technical aspects of financial management accountability and should be synchronized with the spirit of devotion to God to preserve the local spiritual culture in the Jimbaran traditional village.

The Belief in Pullayar among Agrarian People in Ampara District, Sri Lanka

Worship of deities takes a specific position among the religious beliefs related to agriculture. The Pullayar deity belief with agriculture specially can be seen in Northern Province and Nuwarakalaviya in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The study investigates the significance of the Pullayar deity belief among the agricultural community in Ampara District. It also focusses on the ways in which the agricultural practices of farmers, socio-cultural identities, and customs are influenced by the deity belief system. The main objective of the research was to examine the contemporary condition of Pullayar deity belief associated with agriculture in the Ampara District. The two Grama Niladari (GN) divisions of Galahitiyagoda and Udayagiriya belonging to Uhana Divisional Secretariat in Ampara district were used as the study areas. Data required for the research was collected using forty (40) farmers selected from the study area under random sampling method. Participatory observation and unstructured interviews were used to gather data. Pullayar worship is closely linked with the agricultural practices of Ampara district. Here farmers perform specific rituals for a successful harvest. Among the farming folk beliefs of Ampara, the Pullayar deity worship is uniquely adapted to protect the land from fertility and natural calamities. According to the farmers in this area, it is customary to worship the Buddha as well as Gambara Devi before doing any task in the paddy fields. As a special offering for pullayar deity, farmers offer coconut and let the pots overflow with milk as a ritual. It is performed by them for the protection of their fields and cattle. Pullayar rituals foster collective social cohesion. Strengthens community bonds through shared spiritual practices. Worship as well reveals a gendered division of religious duties, with men leading agricultural rituals and women maintaining household shrines. Therefore, this society reflects a balanced role of spiritual practices across genders. Though, Pullayar deity worship can be regarded as a particular cultural aspect that is unique to the agrarian economic system in this area and still exists now.

How employees’ motivated needs relate to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality

PurposeThe aim of this paper was to examine the interrelationships between Maslow’s motivated needs in relation to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality experiences.Design/methodology/approachRegression analysis using a cross-sectional, convenience sampling approach of 158 US employees responding to survey questions using a Qualtrics survey related to their demographics, motivated needs, daily spirituality experiences, workplace spirituality, work spirituality experiences and work-related flow.FindingsCorrelation analyses provided support for Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in relation to employees’ daily spiritual experiences, workplace spirituality, work spirituality experiences and work-related flow. Regression analyses also identified the specific Maslow needs that served as predictive factors in relation to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality. Findings and conclusions are also discussed in relation to employees and organizations.Practical implicationsCurrently, there are no correlation studies that have examined workplace spirituality as an ethical behavior in the workplace and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. This correlation gap is notable because further examination of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a theoretical framework in relation to employees’ spirituality can be particularly valuable for contemporary work settings. Consider that today’s work environment is faced with dynamic and unique factors, and each of these factors not only changes the work environment but also they significantly drive or minimize employee motivation. Three such factors include new generations of employees with unique values entering the workforce and the great resignation and quiet quitting.Social implicationsThe study identifies that Maslow’s belonging, esteem and self-transcendence are related positively to employees’ spiritual experiences in the workplace. When these needs are fulfilled in the work environment, employees may be more likely to engage in spiritual practices at work, such as participating in yoga, prayer and meditation and in fulfilling one’s motivated needs and spirituality, employees are able to pursue their true purpose in the workplace.Originality/valueThis study extends the literature regarding understanding the value of workplace spirituality as a positive outcome for the employees and organizations.

Hydropedagogical Literary Perspective on the Brantas River Myth in Java, Indonesia

This study on the myths of the Brantas River is conducted using a literature hydropedagogy perspective. The research aims to dissect the literary aspects of the myth by applying the concept of water studies. This qualitative research uses data in the form of mythological narratives about the Brantas River that are prevalent in the Kediri community, collected through interviews with local residents. The data is analyzed through various literatures using the hydropedagogy perspective developed based on the concept "Learning from Water" by Prof. Dr. Suwardi Endraswara, M.Hum. The origin of the Brantas River is described by Empu Bharada, who divided the Kediri Kingdom’s territory by pouring water from a jug in the middle of the kingdom. The analysis reveals several Javanese philosophies related to water: (1) water always flows from higher to lower places, (2) water always fills empty spaces, and (3) water always flows to the estuary. Additionally, the term "kendhi" is derived from the phrase "kendhalining dhiri". A myth suggests that if a president crosses the Brantas River, they will lose their position or power. This belief is linked to the mystical nature of the Brantas River, often used for rituals and spiritual practices by ancestors. However, the validity of this belief depends on one's logic and religious values. Moreover, the study explores how individuals perceive myths as life guidelines or literary works that enhance cultural awareness and wisdom in facing life.

A thousand converging paths to self-observation and self-discovery: science, spirituality and philosophical practice

This article aims to connect dots from different schools of thought and argues for the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to any subject matter and the immense potential the virtually endless openings thus created can represent for philosophical counseling. It brings arguments on the importance of understanding from linguistic nuances, in any strict systematic discipline that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable hypotheses and predictions about the world, to various symbolic systems of spiritual practices. It emphasizes the formal logic of mathematics – which comes from the ancient Greek notion máthēma (μάθημα), meaning "that which is learned", "what one gets to know", hence also "study" and "science" – in an attempt to simplify complexities but also the importance, for one’s philosophical journey to self-harmonization with existence, of a large number of alternative types and forms of reconstruction of reality devised by mankind. By employing pure or applied mathematics thinking patterns – if addressed to scientifically-minded interlocutors –, philosophy qua practice can build bridges between disciplines by cross-translating specific glossaries, focusing on referential points, and emancipative essences, and smoothing sharp edges - in the search for a broader, common denominator, and collective viewpoint. For instance, for clients with advanced scientific backgrounds and high expectations, it can start the dialogic reflections from philosophy’s own sophisticated toolset able explain the Doppler shift of psychohistory, by de-noising - in midair - the different observable perspectives, in the multipolar, prone to gridlock, umwelt of humanity. For other clients, less scientific yet read and inclined towards objective realism, philosophical counseling can still start their transformative journey from anchoring their worldviews in the fact that the laws of physics are here to stay, yet suggesting the adoption of the observer effect through which, in our commuting with nature, neutrality can have a harmonizing effect on the viability of what constitutes the "is", starting from the individual "know thyself", continuing with the containing physical, ideological, spiritual frameworks to identify inflection points and prepare next adjacencies for evolution in the collective reality. For many other potential philosophically inclined clients, other spiritual practices such as various religions or meditation are crucial coordinates of their lives and around which philosophical counselors can revolve the dialogue. Yet other people are inclined to philosophize through favorite insightful song lyrics and melodies. Philosophical counseling can help to leave no one behind in terms of finding meaning, decision grounding, and, or at least, peace. Whatever that might mean, on micro and macro levels. Building a philosophical journey "ark" needs a blueprint, and requires a list of "animals", a pair of each kind - the "good" and "bad" sides, hand in hand, of any identifiable entity - before it sets sail towards the unknown, the open sea. In the narrow neck of the present, in the sand clock between past and future every client who seeks assistance feels at the crossroads of the reflected side of "where do I/We come from" and the "where am/are I/We going! " regardless if "we" - as a collective - understand or not "what are We".

From Ong to idols: hyper-real religions, spiritual practices, and popular culture among Thai youth

ABSTRACT This paper employs Adam Possamai’s concept of “hyper-real religions” to argue that Thai youth are utilizing various spaces to blend different faiths and popular cultures, and synergizing with consumerism to shape a novel manifestation of “religion.” In Thai communities, spiritual practices and mediumship are interwoven into communal dynamics, often supporting local Buddhist institutions. Kitiarsa presented the journey of becoming a medium, which involves physical symptoms, negotiations with spirits, and eventual acceptance. This study explores the notion of “Ong” within contemporary youth culture and analyzes glocalized beliefs among Thai spiritual practitioners on digital platforms through online practice, questionnaires, and interviews. Unlike historical views where Ong bestowed supernatural abilities, contemporary practitioners perceive themselves as empowered to choose. They amalgamate multiple religions and pop culture to make spiritual practices more relatable while acknowledging their embedded political implications. The paper comprises sections on Thai religious practice, hyper-real religions, commodification of faith, de-westernization of tarot reading, integration of Hinduism, and K-Pop’s impact on Thai youth spirituality.

Современные биоэтические проблемы в контексте основных принципов буддийской этики

The relevance of this research consists in reconsideration of the main approaches to solving bioethical problems based on the religious and ethical principles of Buddhism. The purpose of this research is to analyze Buddhist principles that can be consistently applied to a range of biomedical problems (euthanasia, biomedical experiments with animals, etc.). The subject of our research is ethics in the context of medicine, namely the relationship between Buddhism and medical practice. The research materials are based on many years of teaching the bioethics course at St. Petersburg State University of Chemistry and Pharmacy and Tyumen State Medical University, as well as on the results of research related to the development of scientific research of bioethical issues. The central question of modern bioethics about the nature and status of the moral subject in Buddhism is based on the principle of the moral dignity of all living beings: from human life to the life of animals and, perhaps, even plants. Belief in interspecific rebirth and respect for animal life are typical of Buddhist ethics. In modern ethics, Buddhism is a teleological ethics of virtue, which postulates a certain end result of life as the implementation of human potential and asserts that this goal should be realized through cultivation of certain spiritual practices, which implies the rejection of euthanasia, abortion, artificial insemination and other dvanced medical technologies.