An excerpt from “Science and Philosophy in the Indian Buddhist Classics, Volume 2: The Mind” on Buddhist understandings of consciousness.
Happiness in Every Breath
When we stop feeding our cravings, says Thich Nhat Hanh, we discover that we already have everything we need to be happy.
The Four Layers of Consciousness
Abhidharma, Buddhism’s map of the mind, is sometimes treated as a topic of merely intellectual interest. In fact, says Thich Nhat Hanh, identifying the different elements of consciousness, and understanding how they interact, is essential to our practice of meditation.
The Science of the Mind and the Science of the Brain
While scientific methods are useful, says the Dalai Lama, mind should also be studied through rigorous observation of our own subjective experience.
Leading neuroscientists and Buddhists agree: “Consciousness is everywhere”
Neuroscientist Christof Koch discusses scientific theories of consciousness with the Dalai Lama.New theories suggest Buddhist teachings on consciousness may be correct, and the implications for science could be huge.
The Beginner’s Mind of Scientist Sir Roger Penrose
Rev. Tony Stultz on the brilliant mind who models a rich exchange between Buddhism and scientific thought — for the benefit of all beings.
Ask the Teachers: How can we practice when dealing with dementia?
Pictured: Zenkei Blanche Hartman, Narayan Helen Liebenson, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche. Photos by Barbara Wenger, Janine Guldener, Mary Lang.The teachers are asked “What happens to our right effort if we lose the ability to practice or to work with our mind?”
First Person Science
The Dalai Lama argues that a full study of the mind must include the first person empiricism of the contemplative traditions.
Attending to the Deathless
; Japan; 15th century; Color and gold on silk; H x W: 115.2 x 58.9 cm (45 3/8 x 23 3/16 in); Gift of Charles Lang Freer. Image courtesy of the Freer Sackler Gallery.“When the heart is released from clinging,” said the Buddha, “then consciousness does not land anywhere. That state, I tell you, is without sorrow, afflication or despair.” Ajahn Amaro on abiding in the consciousness that is completely beyond conditioned phenomena—neither supporting them nor supported by them.
This is it
Aram Saroyan on the ordinary experience that changes our lives – if we only notice it.