10% Happier with Dan Harris Why I’m Not a Buddhist | Evan Thompson
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Feb 9, 2022 Join Evan Thompson, a writer and philosophy professor at the University of British Columbia, as he critiques the concepts of 'Buddhist exceptionalism' and 'neural Buddhism.' He unpacks why Buddhism captivates the Western world and challenges the trend of 'McMindfulness.' Thompson advocates for a cosmopolitan approach to understand Buddhism, bridging it with science while emphasizing the importance of community and collective suffering. Discover his insights on how mindfulness can intersect with social justice and reshape our understanding of the self.
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Thompson's Early Buddhist Exposure
- Evan Thompson grew up exposed to diverse Buddhist traditions through his parents' alternative community.
- This early immersion included resident meditation teachers and exposure to Buddhist philosophy.
Origin of Thompson's Critique
- Thompson's misgivings about Buddhism crystallized during his involvement in the dialogue between Buddhism and science.
- His concerns center on "Buddhist exceptionalism," the idea that Buddhism is superior to other religions.
Normative Concepts in Meditation
- Thompson argues that concepts like craving and attachment, presented as neutral observations in meditation, are actually normative and value-laden.
- He suggests that these concepts are rooted in a specific worldview open to debate.
