A very readable and thought-provoking book on the Dalai Lama's personal encounters with science and the parallels observable between Buddhist teachings and the discoveries of modern science. The book attempts to bring science and spirituality closer together and to find a possible common ground between the two benefiting all.
In this fascinating book the concept of a 'beginningless universe' is contrasted with the big bang theory, evolution and karma are paralleled, the meaning of 'consciousness' from the respective perspectives of Buddhism and science are compared as well as there is discussion on aspects of ethics and genetics.
In his book, the Dalai Lama pays homage to the those scientists he has come into touch with over the years and acknowledges how fruitful the dialogue he has had with them has been. He also dispels parts of the stereotype of the narrowly rational scientist and talks about the qualities of compassion and empathy he discovered in those scientists he came into contact with.
I am not a Buddhist and did not become a convert as a result of reading this book. This was, of course, not the intention of the Dalai Lama, either. Still, some of the beliefs and philosophies are presented with such power that one is compelled to review thoroughly one's own beliefs and perhaps include some of the relevant truths offered by the author in one's own convictions. No, I am not talking about giving up beliefs. But the way we interpret the world around us should never be solid beyond any possible review. I am convinced that it is possible to include important insights from other traditions without giving up the integrity of our own beliefs.
I particularly sympathize with the Dalai Lama's criticism of 'scientific materialism' that supposes that all human experience can be defined empirically.
In this fascinating book the concept of a 'beginningless universe' is contrasted with the big bang theory, evolution and karma are paralleled, the meaning of 'consciousness' from the respective perspectives of Buddhism and science are compared as well as there is discussion on aspects of ethics and genetics.
In his book, the Dalai Lama pays homage to the those scientists he has come into touch with over the years and acknowledges how fruitful the dialogue he has had with them has been. He also dispels parts of the stereotype of the narrowly rational scientist and talks about the qualities of compassion and empathy he discovered in those scientists he came into contact with.
I am not a Buddhist and did not become a convert as a result of reading this book. This was, of course, not the intention of the Dalai Lama, either. Still, some of the beliefs and philosophies are presented with such power that one is compelled to review thoroughly one's own beliefs and perhaps include some of the relevant truths offered by the author in one's own convictions. No, I am not talking about giving up beliefs. But the way we interpret the world around us should never be solid beyond any possible review. I am convinced that it is possible to include important insights from other traditions without giving up the integrity of our own beliefs.
I particularly sympathize with the Dalai Lama's criticism of 'scientific materialism' that supposes that all human experience can be defined empirically.
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