Aristotle's Theoria in Contemplative Education

Abstract This essay analyzes Pierre Hadot's reading of Aristotelian theoria in order to evaluate theoria' s relevancy for the contemporary field of Contemplative Education. It emphasizes the limited engagement with theoria against a backdrop of heightened attention to mindfulness‐based practices. The essay critiques the conflation of Plato and Aristotle's appropriations of diplomatic theoria and reveals shortcomings in Hadot's attempt to characterize theoria as a spiritual exercise of self‐cultivation at the core of an Aristotelian way of life. The critique underscores the need for a clearer delineation of Plato and Aristotle's contribution to contemporary Contemplative Education and points to the possibility of a richer exploration of theoria beyond Hadot's interpretation.