In this enlightening conversation, Chris Niebauer, an expert in cognitive science and author of 'No Self, No Problem', challenges the concepts of ownership and success as mere illusions. He emphasizes the difference between abstract thoughts and genuine experiences, highlighting how societal constructs shape our identities. Niebauer encourages mindfulness and grounding in reality, warning against the dangers of attaching too much meaning to thoughts. With a touch of humor, he also shares insights from his journey in writing a new book while engaging with the community.
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insights INSIGHT
Abstractions Create Suffering
Words like ownership and success are abstract concepts that don't exist in direct experience.
Identifying with these abstractions causes suffering and complications.
insights INSIGHT
Two Worlds: Real and Abstract
We live in two worlds: direct conscious experience and the abstract world of concepts.
The abstract world is shallow and creates illusions like self, ownership, and success.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Grounding to Counter Anxiety
Use grounding techniques like focusing on sensory experiences to escape anxiety and shame.
Bringing attention to direct conscious experience reduces stress and reconnects you to reality.
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Anam Thubten's "No Self, No Problem" offers a practical guide to understanding the concept of 'no-self' in Buddhism. It explores how clinging to a fixed sense of self is the root of suffering and how letting go of this illusion leads to liberation. The book uses clear language and relatable examples to explain complex Buddhist ideas. It emphasizes the importance of meditation and mindfulness in cultivating self-awareness and overcoming ego-centric tendencies. It's a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice.
This episode is a portion of a recent community guest speaker call with Chris Niebauer. Chris came back to the community to discuss what I love to talk about – imagination versus reality.
Chris talked about the complete made-up-ness of words. Words, especially ones like ownership and success, are massive abstractions that are not here in direct experience. What they point to is not even real in direct experience. When we look at our identification with these words and the suffering they can bring, it’s pretty amazing to see that they aren’t even real!
It was fun to share in Chris’ excitement for this topic and how aligned we are in this regard. Enjoy this conversation with Chris!
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