Meditation as a Methodological Tool for Enhancing Scientific Observation and Reducing Cognitive Bias in Psychological Research

Amira Arora

Independent Researcher

Abstract

The study explores how meditative practice may be applied to lessen cognitive bias and strengthen the quality of scientific observation within psychological inquiry. Its central aim is to assess mindfulness as a means of cultivating heightened awareness, improved neutrality and more ethical conduct among researchers. Conceptually, the paper employs a review-based approach that draws on purposively selected literature from psychology, neuroscience and contemplative science published in peer-reviewed outlets. A thematic synthesis strategy was adopted to interpret the selected evidence. The review indicates that mindfulness supports the development of meta-cognitive insight, contributes to the reduction of bias and encourages more ethically sound decision-making in research contexts. The discussion proposes that meditative practice can facilitate procedural enhancement by enabling researchers to recognise and regulate their internal experiences. In practical terms, incorporating mindfulness training into postgraduate programmes and research environments may strengthen methodological rigour, support reproducibility and reinforce research integrity.

Mindfulness, Meditation, Cognitive Bias, Researcher Reflexivity, Scientific Methodology