%0 Journal Article %A Karl Frost %T Calming Meditation Increases Altruism, Decreases Parochialism %D 2016 %R 10.1101/060616 %J bioRxiv %P 060616 %X This research project attempts to answer the question of whether a socially learned calming practice increases altruistic behavior and/or decreases parochialism. In this context, altruism is defined as self-sacrifice in support of others, regardless of group affiliation or identity, and parochialism is defined as such prosocial self-sacrifice restricted to fellow members of a group. This question is examined via a formal behavioral experiment using a simple treatment and control format with a 5 minute calming breath awareness practice, with altruism and parochialism measured through anonymous play in Public Goods games performed with both in-group and out-group individuals. The in vs out group status is established through random assignment into groups, and PG games are played with and between these groups. The sum of contributions gives a measure of altruism, while the difference between the two is a measure of parochialism. The analysis of the results using Bayesian model comparison methods lend support to the hypothesis that calm both reduces parochialism and increases altruism. %U https://www.biorxiv.org/content/biorxiv/early/2016/06/24/060616.full.pdf