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Deconstructing Yourself
Questioning Assumptions about Buddhism, with Evan Thompson
Feb 16, 2020
Cognitive scientist and philosopher Evan Thompson discusses his book 'Why I Am Not a Buddhist' and challenges the myth of Buddhist exceptionalism, the misinterpretation of the concept of no self, the interaction between science, Buddhism, and philosophy, recognizing ritualistic practices, and exploring death.
52:23
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Quick takeaways
- The value of meditation retreats lies not just in revealing reality, but also in shaping it according to a particular perspective and community.
- Buddhism should move beyond the exceptionalist view and engage in a meaningful dialogue with science, philosophy, and other religious perspectives.
Deep dives
The Constructive Nature of Meditation Retreats
Meditation retreats, such as Vipassana retreats, are described as community practices that shape reality as much as they reveal it. The retreat experience involves being given a conceptual system or template that molds our experience to fit a certain perspective. Understanding this constructive aspect allows individuals to more accurately assess the value of their practice and make informed choices about which communities and teachings align with their beliefs and values.
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