Buddhism and science
a guide for the perplexed
Donald S. Lopez
264 pages | ~7 hrs
Buddhism
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Learn MoreBuddhism and science
a guide for the perplexed
By Donald S. Lopez
For centuries, seekers have wondered whether ancient wisdom and modern science can walk the same path. In this thoughtful exploration, Donald S. Lopez Jr. examines the persistent claims that Buddhism and scientific discovery share common ground, from modest assertions about meditation's mental health benefits to bold declarations that the Buddha foresaw quantum physics and relativity theory thousands of years ago.
Rather than judging whether these connections hold true, Lopez investigates why two seemingly different ways of understanding our inner and outer worlds have been so consistently linked together. His journey begins with Mount Meru, the towering peak at the heart of traditional Buddhist cosmology, and traces how this sacred geography was reinterpreted when it clashed with modern scientific understanding.
The narrative moves through fascinating historical territory, revealing how Buddhist ideas about spiritual development were sometimes misappropriated to support questionable racial theories in the nineteenth century. Lopez then brings readers into contemporary discussions, examining the Dalai Lama's engagement with scientific research and exploring what neuroscience studies of meditation might reveal about consciousness itself.
Through careful analysis, Lopez suggests that positioning Buddhism as compatible with scientific breakthroughs has allowed both Western enthusiasts and Asian leaders to navigate complex questions about religion's place in our modern world. For anyone curious about how spiritual traditions adapt to scientific progress, this work offers valuable insights into the ongoing conversation between ancient wisdom and contemporary discovery.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Wissenschaft
- ✓ Explore Naturwissenschaften
- ✓ Explore Neurowissenschaften
- ✓ Explore Weltbild
- ✓ Explore Buddhism and science
- ✓ Explore Religion and science
- ✓ Explore Religion och vetenskap
Topics
Details
- Published
- 2008
- Publisher
- University of Chicago Press
- ISBN-13
- 9780226493121
- ISBN-10
- 0226493121
- Pages
- 264
- Language
- EN
- LC Classification
- BQ4570.S3 L67 2008
