John Dunne - At the Crossroads of Buddhism and Science

John Dunne - At the Crossroads of Buddhism and Science

Author: Mind & Life Institute February 26, 2021 Duration: 1:11:13
In this episode, Wendy speaks with Buddhist scholar John Dunne. John has interfaced with contemplative scientists for over two decades to help advance rigorous research on meditation by incorporating a nuanced Buddhist perspective. They touch on many topics, including: his path to integrating Buddhism and science, and the early days of contemplative research; defining "meditation" for research purposes; focused attention vs. open monitoring meditation; a deep dive into meta-awareness; subject/object duality and whether anything really exists; the different ways we experience the sense of self; hallucinogens, ego dissolution, and non-dual practices; decentering and dereification; and where he thinks the field should go next. Full show notes and resources

At the heart of Mind & Life is a simple, profound question: what is a mind, really? This isn't just a philosophical puzzle but a practical exploration of the mental habits that define our days. The conversations hosted by the Mind & Life Institute gently dismantle the walls between disciplines, weaving together insights from neuroscience and psychology with the lived wisdom of contemplative traditions. You’ll hear dialogues that feel less like interviews and more like shared discoveries, where a philosopher and a meditation teacher might find common ground on how attention works, or where a scientist discusses the social impact of compassion training. Each episode is an invitation to look inward with curiosity, examining how practices like meditation aren't about escape but about engaging with our inner world more skillfully. This podcast operates from the conviction that understanding our own minds is foundational to addressing broader cultural and societal challenges. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the mechanics of their own thoughts and emotions and sought a deeper, evidence-informed conversation about transformation. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of rigorous inquiry and personal relevance, where ancient questions meet modern investigation.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 90

Mind & Life
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