The Ethical Dimensions of Mindfulness in Public Health

Abstract

This commentary on “Mindfulness for global public health: Critical analysis and agenda” seeks to add to the discussion by considering, what are the moral or ethical implications of introducing mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) into public health? An open question should be asked: Do MBIs promote “moral health,” a type of mental well-being based on moral integrity? Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the moral influences of MBIs on individuals, but more concerning is the complete absence of population or collective-based data. Moreover, the data on the moral influences of MBIs originate from neurotypical, socially advantaged, and homogeneous demographics, so caution is warranted regarding the potential impact on general public’s moral functioning before proceeding. This commentary briefly reviews the existing literature on the relationship between moral functioning and MBIs, then addresses why the unknown effects of moral functioning from mindfulness on a social level are a concern for public health. Following many of Oman’s proposed axes, it then raises questions about what MBIs could do to the moral functioning of certain populations with mental health issues, diverse and disadvantaged populations, and various multi-sector levels throughout society. In some cases, MBIs might need to include ethical adaptations, which add components that explicitly encourage moral development. These adaptations could support protective measures or mitigate moral risk factors. The commentary concludes by suggesting that ethical motivation could be an added axis to Oman’s scheme, as there is an alignment between mindfulness and public health. Nonetheless, it cautions that more research is needed at the population level on the moral influences from MBIs before their widespread implementation in public health.