Mission and Charter

The IPPA Spirituality and Meaning Division (SMD) values and strives to be an inclusive, open-minded group that does not allow one’s spiritual, religious, and/or non-religious beliefs to be considered superior or to be prioritized over others.  We believe that the science and practice of spirituality and meaning are transformative, providing human beings with an essential path for psycho-spiritual well-being.  Therefore, the focus of any and all research, discussion, and work done by or for this Division is not an attempt to validate religious rituals, beliefs, customs or institutions.  It is not an attempt to elevate any one particular religion or set of spiritual beliefs. 

Because of the sensitivity and entrenched biases and stereotypes surrounding this topic, we assert that science is the starting point of all our discussions and work.  We acknowledge the fact that some spiritual experiences might not be fully examined by contemporary science and we remain open to such experiences as a part of our exploration and research process.  We aggregate, catalyze, conduct and disseminate the science of spirituality and meaning.  From that science, best practices can be highlighted and outlined, and those practical applications, in turn, can inform the science.

To review the SMD Charter, please click here (opens a PDF).