Neuroscience and Buddhism converging on the inconstant self

An increasing number of scientific researchers are referencing and drawing on Buddhism in their studies, especially in the field of neuroscience.

Heather Wardle24 September 2015
brain, mind, neuroscience, Buddhism, Buddhism and science, neuroscience and Buddhism, Lion's Roar

Science and religion have been mostly viewed as separate since the Enlightenment, but an increasing number of scientific researchers are referencing and drawing on Buddhism in their studies, especially in the field of neuroscience. An article on Quartz this week notes on that scientific researchers are coming to accept theories on the ever-changing self as taught by the Buddha 2600 years ago, and coming to appreciate the mind-altering effects of meditation.

The formal dialogue between neuroscience and Buddhism dates to the 1980s, catalyzed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Mind and Life Institute, co-founded by the late neuroscientist and Buddhist, Francisco Varela.

Heather Wardle

Heather Wardle

Heather Wardle is a writer at Lion’s Roar and the editor of The Power of Compassion by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.