Unpacking global consciousness

Identifying the psychological dimensions that foster awareness and action in an interconnected world

Datos Bibliográficos

ID7147622
AutoresMarc Chao (0000-0002-7058-6153, Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia, autor de correspondencia), Carolyn Heward (0000-0001-8443-1446, Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia), Jennifer Gaskin (0009-0008-5985-527X, Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia), Margie Smith (Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia), Wendy W Li (0000-0002-0056-6130, Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia, autor de correspondencia)
Año2025
Volumen28
Número3
Fecha de publicación2025-09-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaAsian Journal Of Social Psychology (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1367-2223 • E-ISSN: 1467-839X
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/ajsp.70031
OpenAlexW4411784870
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas1
Referencias citadas82

Global consciousness is a critical construct in an increasingly interconnected world, encompassing an awareness of the interconnectedness and diversity of humankind and a commitment to moral action on its behalf. However, its psychological dimensions remain underexplored, necessitating further understanding of the cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes that drive meaningful engagement with global challenges. A scoping review was conducted to address this gap, analysing literature from 1989 to 2024. Thirty‐one studies (quantitative, qualitative, mixed‐methods and reviews) were included to identify the key psychological dimensions underpinning global consciousness. The findings identified six interconnected dimensions of global consciousness: cognitive processes, encompassing reflective and integrative cognitive dispositions; core beliefs and values, including shared humanity, justice and cultural openness; social‐relational dynamics, fostering cohesion, identity and collaboration; affective states, such as empathy and hope, driving emotional engagement; actions that translate awareness into behaviours like intercultural navigation and resource sharing; and motivational drives that energise efforts toward equity and well‐being. Together, these dimensions demonstrate that global consciousness is a multidimensional construct, integrating cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes. Understanding these dimensions is crucial for fostering global consciousness in individuals and communities, providing a foundation for addressing contemporary global challenges and promoting collective moral responsibility

Consciousness · Unpacking · Cultural Differences and Values · Education and Critical Thinking Development · International Student and Expatriate Challenges · Psychology · Social Psychology