Abstract
Recent studies on sacred space have gained prominence across the social and human sciences, integrating interdisciplinary approaches from neuroscience, anthropology, and responses to social, political, and ecological challenges. This research examines how sacred space influences individual experiences, social behavior, and collective action. Neuroscientific contributions, such as those from Franco Fabbro, explore how meditative and religious practices activate brain mechanisms, highlighting the impact of space—both physical and symbolic—on mental states like concentration, calm, and transcendence. The design of sacred spaces, including architectural features, light, color, and symbolism, plays a significant role in shaping perception and sensory experience. Cultural anthropology, particularly through Francesco Remotti’s work, helps understand how spaces reflect and reinforce shared values, while Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts of habitus emphasize how physical arrangements influence social relationships. Sacred spaces in Engaged Buddhism are not only used for spiritual practices but also serve as centers for activism, promoting social justice, peace, and nonviolence. In Green Buddhism, sacred spaces embody ecological sustainability, using bioclimatic architecture, sustainable materials, and permaculture practices to demonstrate the interconnectedness of human and environmental well-being. Additionally, the use of technologies like 3D modeling and virtual reality offers new tools for analyzing how sacred spaces affect the mind and behavior, fostering sustainable practices and social justice actions. In conclusion, sacred space is dynamic, influencing both mental states and social change through its physical, symbolic, and ecological dimensions.
Presenters
Francesca BennaPhD Student, SARAS - Department of History, Anthropology, Religions, Arts, and Performing Arts, Sapienza University, RM, Italy
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fragile Meanings: Vulnerability in the Study of Religions and Spirituality
KEYWORDS
Sacred space, Buddhism, Engaged Buddhism, Green Buddhism, Neuroscience
