Clear Mountain Monastery Project Letter to a Buddhist Nation: Rebirth, Refuge, & the Limits of Skepticism | Sam Harris Q&A
Nov 19, 2025
In this enlightening conversation, neuroscientist Sam Harris discusses his nuanced relationship with Buddhism, emphasizing that secularists can adopt Buddhist practices without faith. He shares insights on the role of ethical conduct in meditation and critiques mystical claims from some teachers. Sam also reflects on the complexity of concepts like rebirth, expressing an agnostic view while addressing ethical concerns surrounding purported psychic powers. His thoughts on non-dual wisdom, personal practice, and maintaining mindfulness amid fame invite listeners to consider deeper existential questions.
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Secular Access To Contemplative Insight
- Deep contemplative insights (emptiness, selflessness) don't require religious belief to practice or verify.
- Sam Harris argues these techniques are secularly usable and yield practical benefits for attention and wellbeing.
Meditative Skill Isn't Moral Proof
- Meditative accomplishment can coexist with moral failings in teachers and institutions.
- Harris highlights how de-emphasizing sila and teacher-dependence correlates with more scandals.
A Teacher Who Made Dzogchen Click
- Harris recounts key encounters with Dzogchen teachers that clarified how to practice non-dual mindfulness.
- He credits Tukur Rinpoche for giving the precise, nearness-based instructions that unlocked the practice.
