Philosopher's Zone - Buddhism and science: Talking past each other?

This week's Philosopher's Zone, hosted by Alan Saunders, looks at the convergence of modern science (including neuroscience) and Buddhism, a project supported and organized by the Dalai Lama over the last 20+ years with his Mind and Life Institute and conferences.

The guest for this discussion, Bernard Faure, Professor of Japanese Religions, Columbia University, thinks we need to slow down a bit and also look at the differences between the two models of life and consciousness. It's a good discussion.

Buddhism and science: Talking past each other?

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Broadcast: Sunday 27 May 2012 

 Photo: (Erik Törner, IM Individuell Människohjälp www.manniskohjalp.se)

This week, we look at the convergence – or perhaps not – of two philosophies: Buddhism and modern science.  Buddhism has attempted to redefine itself in relation to neuroscience. A case in point is the ‘dialogue’ between Buddhism and neuroscience promoted by the Dalai Lama and his Western followers.   But before talking of a possible convergence between neuroscience and Buddhism, do we need to acknowledge the divergences?

Guests

Bernard Faure: Kao Professor of Japanese Religions, Columbia University

Further Information

• Bernard Faure's bio at Columbia University
• 'All in the Mind' on 'Our Emotional Brain'