Royal Reason of Relativity: Buddha, Einstein & Wittgenstein – Ep. 5
Feb 27, 2015
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Professor Thurman, a distinguished scholar of Buddhist philosophy and theories of relativity, dives into the fascinating connections between the insights of the Buddha, Einstein, and Wittgenstein. He discusses the instability of perception and reality, challenging our understanding of matter. The conversation explores how yoga principles can enhance scientific thinking and emphasizes the importance of interconnectedness in shaping our existence. Thurman also highlights the balance of generosity and enlightenment as a transformative practice.
The podcast explores how the concept of relativity in modern physics parallels the Buddha's insights into emptiness and non-duality, emphasizing a profound understanding of reality's fluidity.
It highlights the importance of recognizing subjectivity in scientific inquiries, encouraging a harmonious integration of philosophical awareness and empirical investigation.
Deep dives
The Power Within Atoms
Atoms, which appear stable and solid, harbor enormous potential energy that can be released under the right conditions. The discussion reflects on how this energy can potentially lead to catastrophic events, such as nuclear explosions, reminiscent of the destructive power of atomic bombs. This concept is anchored in the principles of general and special relativity, suggesting that matter is not as rigid as it appears. Ultimately, the underlying idea is that within every atom lies the possibility of extraordinary transformation, fundamentally challenging our understanding of stability in the physical world.
Concept of Voidness
The idea that 'matter is voidness and voidness is matter' is pivotal, indicating a deep philosophical understanding where form and emptiness coexist. This concept underscores that what we perceive as physical structure is intertwined with the notion of emptiness, refuting traditional views of solid matter. By distinguishing between 'form' as mere visual representation and 'matter' as tangible substance, it is emphasized that our conventional understandings of reality may be misleading. This perspective invites a reevaluation of how we perceive existence, suggesting that our reality is fundamentally relational rather than absolute.
Subjectivity in Science
The role of subjectivity in scientific inquiry is highlighted, suggesting that scientists must recognize their perspective in analyzing the universe. This acknowledgment leads to a deeper understanding of the relationship between observer and observed, ultimately enhancing scientific exploration. The conversation touches on prominent figures like Einstein and Wittgenstein, emphasizing their insights into the intrinsic fluidity of reality. By linking scientific principles to philosophical wisdom, it posits that an enlightened approach to knowledge combines rigorous inquiry with an awareness of relational perspectives within the cosmos.
Professor Thurman discusses the progression in theories of relativity in the west from Einstein to Wittgenstein, and shows how the Buddha set forth a perhaps more complete version of the same insight 2500 years earlier with what was later called “the royal reason of relativity. “
This episode is extracted from Professor Thurman’s Winter 2015 lecture series at Tibet House US “Essential Tibetan Buddhism, and its Context in Tibet and the World.”
Royal Reason of Relativity: Buddha, Einstein & Wittgenstein – Ep. 5 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Sidney Perry on Unsplash.
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