Significance of Attention

Attention is a multifaceted concept that encompasses several definitions across different perspectives. In Theravada, it is linked to mental focus that aids in building consciousness and prioritizing stimuli. Historically, it signifies the act of directing mental resources toward a specific object of interest. Scientifically, attention is recognized as a crucial cognitive process that involves selective focus and plays a vital role in daily functioning, goal setting, and cognitive development, particularly highlighted by studies showing improvements in attention among children practicing yoga.1
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Synonyms: Focus, Notice, Awareness, Concentration, Observation, Mindfulness, Consideration, Interest

In Dutch: Aandacht; In Finnish: Noudattaminen; In Spanish: Atención

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Attention'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Attention encompasses the mental act of focusing on specific objects or experiences, facilitating consciousness formation and cognitive processing, while directing the mind's focus to prioritize certain stimuli for enhanced sense-consciousness.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma

(1) The function aimed at bringing the desired object into the conscious view.[1] (2) The focal engagement of the mind that aids in building up sense-consciousness by prioritizing certain stimuli over others.[2]

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) The focused engagement of the mind with a specific object or thought, enabling thought formation and cognitive processing.[3]

From: Patthanuddesa Dipani

(1) The mental act of focusing on particular objects or experiences, significant in the formation of consciousness.[4]

From: Patthana Dhamma

(1) Manasikara, which directs citta's focus to the object of interest.[5]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

The concept of Attention in local and regional sources

History Books

Attention involves concentrating mental resources on a specific task or object, emphasizing the importance of focus and awareness in processing information effectively. It reflects the act of actively engaging one's mind to enhance understanding and response.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages

(1) This term describes the act of focusing one's mind, directing one's mental resources toward a specific object or task, representing the act of paying heed.[6]

The concept of Attention in scientific sources

Science Books

Attention is a cognitive process evaluated in the study, where enhancements in attention levels were observed in children who practiced yoga, as shown through various assessment tests measuring their improved focus.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

(1) Attention, a cognitive requirement, is associated with the MCC and is crucial when participants are trying to solve addition and subtraction operations, especially in noise.[7] (2) The ability to focus on something, which can be decreased by stress.[8] (3) This is a cognitive process that selects environmental information for processing, and its role in memory is significant.[9]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.