A dialectical approach to understanding the relationship between science and spirituality: The MODI model

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.

KEYWORDS:

• Science
• spirituality
• dialectical
• MODI model

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes on contributor

Dr Oliver C. Robinson is Associate Professor in Psychology at the University of Greenwich, an expert on adult development, and author of the book Paths Between Head and Heart: Exploring the Harmonies of Science and Spirituality. He also co-organises conferences covering science and spirituality for the Scientific and Medical Network. His personal website is at: www.oliverrobinson.info