Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to find new solutions to the problems of contemporary society. Each dialogue explores the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such
In this discussion, filmmaker Paul Howard delves into the Profound Interconnectedness of the Universe and the connection between science and spirituality through the life and ideas of David Bohm, a pioneering quantum physicist. Paul recounts his serendipitous introduction to Bohm's work and how his philosophy bridges the gap between the physical sciences and deeper spiritual insights. The discussion highlights Bohm's concept of the Implicate Order, the unfolding nature of reality, and the influence of quantum physics on our understanding of consciousness and existence.This profound conversation brings science, philosophy, and spirituality together to offer new ways of understanding reality.
In this episode, Swami Sarvapriyananda, neuroscientist Prof. Marjorie Woollacott, and cognitive scientist Prof. John Verveke explore the nature of consciousness. Moderated by Scott Snibbe, the discussion explores the fundamental questions surrounding consciousness: What is it? What does it do? Swami Sarvapriyananda offers insights from Advaita Vedanta, suggesting consciousness is a fundamental reality that illuminates our experiences. Prof. Woollacott describes it as a vast, limitless awareness responsible for the universe's essence, while Prof. Vervaeke addresses the integration of consciousness and function, highlighting its role in salience landscaping in complex situations. The speakers provide diverse perspectives from science, philosophy, and spirituality, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of this age-old mystery."I think as this infinite consciousness is the essence and the foundation of the universe. I believe it is responsible for bringing this manifest universe into existence through its own infinite freedom and creativity."—Prof. Marjorie Woollacott"I instead would argue that there's a way of answering the two of these together. And the way to do that is to first see from a cognitive science perspective why the two questions are challenging, why they're problematic, why consciousness is the Holy Grail of cognitive science."—Prof. John Vervaeke
In this discussion, filmmaker Paul Howard delves into the connection between science and spirituality through the life and ideas of David Bohm, a pioneering quantum physicist. Paul recounts his serendipitous introduction to Bohm's work and how his philosophy bridges the gap between the physical sciences and deeper spiritual insights.The discussion highlights Bohm's concept of the Implicate Order, the unfolding nature of reality, and the influence of quantum physics on our understanding of consciousness and existence. This profound conversation brings science, philosophy, and spirituality together to offer new ways of understanding reality.Learn more about Paul HowardListen to the full Talk hereScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Researcher and contemplative practitioner Juan Santoyo explores meditation's role in improving lives. This insightful talk delves into how meditation extends beyond brain changes to enhance psychological well-being. Juan discusses the clinical relevance of meditation, its benefits, and the importance of personalised approaches. Learn about the intersection of meditation, equity, ecological justice, and the convergence of Buddhist and indigenous knowledge. Discover how contemplative practices can address social, political, and ecological challenges in our interconnected world. This discussion highlights the evolving research themes in meditation, emphasising accessibility and diverse perspectives. Join Juan in understanding how meditation can significantly improve our lives, foster community, and support ecological well-being.Learn more about Juan SantoyoScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
In this insightful discussion, filmmaker Paul Howard explores David Bohm's Hidden Variables Theory and how it challenges conventional quantum mechanics interpretations, such as the Copenhagen Interpretation and Many Worlds Hypothesis. Paul Howard breaks down the double-slit experiment, wave function collapse, and David Bohm's belief in a single wave function orchestrating the universe.He emphasises Bohm's unique approach to non-locality, quantum entanglement, and the potential for a deeper understanding of reality through the Hidden Variables Theory. Paul also touches on current scientific efforts at institutions like the University of Toronto and UCL in London, aimed at proving Bohm's quantum potential.Learn more about the ongoing research and how David Bohm's ideas resonate with both scientific and philosophical perspectives on the nature of reality.Learn more about Paul HowardListen to the full Talk hereScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Join Buddhist Scholar Geshe Tenzin Namdak as he delves into developing mental clarity through mindfulness meditation. In this discussion, Geshe Namdak explains how mental factors such as mindfulness and alertness play a crucial role in achieving concentration and clarity. He elaborates on Buddhist meditation techniques and the importance of mental factors in our daily practice.Learn how to train your mind to stay focused and present, and discover the benefits of mental clarity for solving problems and achieving peace of mind. This video offers valuable insights for anyone interested in mindfulness and meditation.Learn more about Geshe Tenzin NamdakScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Join Scott Snibbe, a renowned speaker and the founder of a Skeptics Path to Enlightenment, as he dives into exploring human consciousness through science and spirituality. In this enlightening session, Scott reflects on his early fascination with consciousness sparked by philosophical works and his subsequent discovery of Buddhist perspectives.He critically examines the concept of consciousness through scientific and philosophical lenses, discussing theories from notable figures such as Daniel Dennett and David Chalmers. This video offers insight into the profound questions of human consciousness and its relation to our subjective experiences.Watch the full talk hereLearn more about Scott SnibbeScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Join Zen teacher Vanessa Zuisei Goddard as she explores effective mind-training techniques inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings. This video delves into the metaphor of the mind as a garden, emphasising the importance of choosing which seeds (thoughts and actions) to nurture and which to let dry up.Learn practical methods to cultivate positive thoughts and how to address unskillful ones using a simple mnemonic: SWITCH (Switch, Warn, Ignore, Trace, Chop). Discover the power of persistence, patience, and the transformative potential of meditation.Learn more about Vanessa Zuisei GoddardScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Neuroscience Researcher Dr. Ekaterina Denkova discusses why attention is crucial for memory and mindfulness. Attention is the cornerstone of all cognitive activities, impacting our memory and mindfulness practices. Ekaterina explains how paying attention is essential for remembering and how our minds often wander, leading to distractions. She shares scientific studies that demonstrate how mindfulness can help us train our attention, reduce internal distractions, and enhance our cognitive control.She highlights the importance of the default mode network in our brain and its role in mind wandering and memory. Through practical examples and research findings, she illustrates how mindfulness practices can attenuate this network's activity, helping us stay present and focused. Join her to learn more about the science behind attention and how mindfulness can transform our mental processes.Learn more about Dr. Denkova EkaterinaScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Join Scott Snibbe in a thought-provoking Q&A session as he explores Buddhist philosophy, Consciousness & AI. In this conversation, Scott takes us on both an intellectual and experiential journey, exploring the intersections between mindfulness, technology, and consciousness. Through the lens of Buddhist philosophy, Scott addresses questions on the nature of consciousness in relation to software and AI, the physical and non-physical aspects of the mind, and the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness in our digital age.Watch the full talk here Learn more about Scott SnibbeScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
In this video, Neuroscience Researcher Dr Ekaterina Denkova discusses effective mental health strategies for adaptive thinking. By exploring mental time travel and mindfulness, she reveals how our memories influence our future and the significance of staying present. She delves into the benefits and potential pitfalls of remembering and ruminating, demonstrating how mindfulness can help us break free from maladaptive thought patterns and enhance our well-being.Join as she explores the dynamic interplay between memory, mindfulness, and brain function to improve mental health.Learn more about Dr. Denkova EkaterinaScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
In this video, Juan Santoyo explores the concept of the embodied mind in cognitive science and its profound connection to meditation practices. Drawing on the influential work of pioneers like Ben Thompson, Eleanor Roshan, and Francisco Varela, Juan discusses how the brain and mind are not isolated entities but are deeply intertwined with the body and environment. This conversation highlights the importance of first-person methodologies in studying the mind and the emerging paradigm of contemplative science. Discover how the integration of meditation practices with scientific research is paving the way for new insights and understanding.Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Scott Snibbe discusses "Understanding The Mental Factors" within Mahayana and Tibetan Buddhism. This video delves into the five present mental factors that accompany every moment of consciousness, offering a deep dive into how these elements influence our perception, emotions, and actions. By understanding contact, perception, feeling, attention, and urge, we uncover how our minds are shaped by past conditioning and how we can transform our responses to create more meaningful and compassionate interactions with the world around us. Discover the practical applications of these mental factors in everyday life and learn how to harness the power of your mind for positive change.Watch the full talk hereLearn more about Scott SnibbeScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Neuroscientist Prof. Marjorie Woollacott, cognitive scientist Prof. John Vervaeke, and Swami Sarvapriyananda from the Advaita Vedanta tradition explore the Nature of Consciousness from diverse perspectives. They discuss the Nature of Consciousness, its role in manifesting the universe, and the mind-brain complex's function as a filter of our perceptual experiences. They share Insights into meditation's impact on brain activity and its ability to expand awareness, offering a unique blend of scientific and spiritual viewpoints on consciousness and self-awareness. This dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, host and producer of the meditation podcast ‘a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment'.This is an excerpt from a previous episode, listen to the full episode here. Show notes: 0:00: Introduction 2:20: The Mind-Brain Complex3:57: Consciousness & Light5:52: Subjective vs Objective Reality9:19: Meditation & Wisdom12:56: Self-awareness15:06: The Unchanging Nature of the Seer18:01: ConclusionScience & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on YoutubeVisit our Website
Anil Seth, one of the foremost researchers in the field of consciousness studies, is interviewed by Scott Snibbe, the host of a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment. In this SciWiz Short, Anil delves into the nature of consciousness and why, according to modern neuroscience, our perception of the self and reality is like a hallucination. Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
Satish Kumar, a peace pilgrim, activist, educator and former Jain monk is interviewed by British journalist and author Vicki Mackenzie. In this Scwiz Short, they explore Satish's life, ideas, and the connection between ecology, activism and spirituality. This episode is part of the lighthouse dialogues, a collaboration between Science and Wisdom LIVE and Jamyang London Buddhist Centre.Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
Three contemplative scholars and practitioners – Rev. Cynthia Carter Perilliat, Dr. Eva Natanya, and Dr. Nigel Hamilton – explore the difficult topic of mortality. They will discuss how we can deal skilfully with the inevitable fact of death, and what can death and dying teach us about life and living.Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
Author Vicki MacKenzie enters in conversation with John Butler, a modern mystic and meditator. In this dialogue, John will share his life's journey and his experience of the sacred through meditation, discussing how silence and stillness can lead to feelings of presence, love, and connection with the divine. The simplicity of his words speaks directly to the heart, inviting us to journey deeper towards an inner peace that we always carry within ourselves.Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
Deb Dana, Rob Preece, and Dr. David Robinson-Morris - discuss the nature of trauma and how we can deal with it in a skilful way that is healing and transformative. The dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, who is also host and producer of a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment.Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
In this Dialogue Geshe Namdak and Dr. Pim van Lommel discuss the origins of our conscious experiences, comparing the insights of Buddhist teachings with modern scientific research on Near Death Experiences. The dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, who is also host and producer of a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment, Listen to the full episode here.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
Wendy Garling, Cynthia Bourgeault and Vicki Mackenzie discuss the transformative role of women in religious traditions. This is an excerpt of a previous Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, "The Buddha's Mother & Mary Magdalene". Listen to the full episode here*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Twitter
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Buddhism, Science, Compassion, and Climate: An Interview with Dr. Thupten Jinpa'.Listen to the full episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1360903/episodes/10389333*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Surviving the Climate Crisis, with Kim Stanley Robinson'.Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGhtP_M2wII&t=531sSubscribe to our newsletter: www.sciwizlive.com*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Deep Ecology, Mindfulness, and Climate Emergency'.Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU0FvOksk3s&t=2sSubscribe to our newsletter: www.sciwizlive.com*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Lighthouse Dialogue I - Vicki Mackenzie interviews Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo'.Watch the full episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1360903/9913030-lighthouse-dialogue-i-vicki-mackenzie-interviews-jetsunma-tenzin-palmo.mp3?download=trueSubscribe to our newsletter: www.sciwizlive.comBorn in Britain, Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo met her teacher, the eighth Khamtrul Rinpoche, in India in 1964. She was one of the first Westerners ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun. After studying with her teacher for six years, she went to a small monastery in Lahaul, India, where she practiced more intensely. Seeking better conditions for meditation, she lived in a cave in the mountains in Lahaul for twelve years, after which, in 1988, she went to Italy.She has taught Dharma internationally and is the founder of Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Tashi Jong, India, where she now lives. Her life is the subject of the book Cave in the Snow, written by author Vicki Mackenzie.In February 2008, Tenzin Palmo was given the rare title of Jetsunma, which means Venerable Master, by His Holiness the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa, Head of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage in recognition of her spiritual achievements as a nun and her efforts in promoting the status of female practitioners in Tibetan Buddhism. *****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Reawakening the Ecological Self', with Dr. Stephan Harding.Listen to the full episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1360903/episodes/9754772Subscribe to our newsletter: www.sciwizlive.com***Dr. Stephan Harding was born in Venezuela in 1953. After his first degree in Zoology at Durham University he was a field assistant for the Smithsonian's field ecology research in Venezuela. His doctorate at the University of Oxford was on the behavioural ecology of the muntjac deer. After teaching conservation biology at the National University of Costa Rica, he became a founder member of Schumacher College. Here he met James Lovelock – the originator of the Gaia hypothesis – with whom he has maintained a long-lasting friendship and scientific collaboration that lead to their joint appointment as founding chair holders of the Arne Naess Chair in Global Justice and the Environment at the University of Oslo.Stephan is the author of Animate Earth: Science, Intuition and Gaia, and Gaia Alchemy, which was published in January 2022 by Bear and Co.
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Reconnecting with Nature and our Inner Being'.Watch the full episode here: https://www.sciwizlive.com/videos/david-loy-zen-ecodharma-interview/Subscribe to our newsletter: www.sciwizlive.comDavid R. Loy is a professor of Buddhist and comparative philosophy, a prolific writer, and a teacher in the Sanbo Zen tradition of Japanese Buddhism. His books include Money Sex War Karma, A New Buddhist Path, and most recently Ecodharma: Buddhist Teachings for the Ecological Crisis. He is especially concerned about social and ecological issues. In addition to offering workshops and meditation retreats, he is one of the founders of the new Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Retreat Center, near Boulder, Colorado. In June 2014, David received an honorary degree from Carleton College, his alma mater, during its 2014 Commencement. April 2016 David returned his honorary degree, to protest the decision of the Board of Trustees not to divest from fossil fuel investments.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Our events touch upon specific themes where science and contemplative traditions intersect, such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.We believe that the dialogue between science and contemplative traditions can inspire positive action and inform an ethical response to the challenges of our times, grounded in the human values of cooperation, compassion and equality.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'What's shame got to do with it?'.You can listen to the full episode here. Tenzin Chogkyi first became interested in meditation and Buddhism in the early 1970s, and became a student of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan Buddhist teachers in early 1991. Tenzin took novice ordination in 2004 with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and completed several long meditation retreats over a six year period. Tenzin teaches Buddhist philosophy and meditation within the FPMT network, and also teachers Cultivating Emotional Balance. She is passionate about social justice and interfaith work in addition to her Buddhist practice, and has been teaching in prisons for more than a decade. Dr. Eve Ekman is a Senior Fellow at the University of California Berkeley Greater Good Science Center, Director of Cultivating Emotional Balance Training Program and volunteer clinical faculty at the UCSF Department of Pediatrics. Ekman draws from an interdisciplinary set of skills and knowledge from her professional work and personal practice in clinical social work, integrative medicine, emotional awareness, contemplative science, and meditation.Ekman's inspiration for research and training were inspired by her experience as a medical social worker in the emergency department of San Francisco General Hospital coupled with her training in emotion awareness and meditation intervention which she now leads: Cultivating Emotional Balance, CEB.*****Science & Wisdom LIVE brings meditation practitioners in conversation with scientists to address the problems of contemporary society and come to new possible solutions.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizliveFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandw...Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'Interdependence & the Nature of Reality'.You can listen to the full episode here.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.com/RRupert Sheldrake, PhD, is a biologist and author of ninety technical papers and eight books, including The Science Delusion, and the co-author of six books. He studied natural sciences at Cambridge and philosophy at Harvard. As a Fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, he was Director of Studies in cell biology, and was also a research fellow of the Royal Society. He worked in Hyderabad, India, as Principal Plant Physiologist at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), and also lived for two years in the Benedictine ashram of Fr Bede Griffiths on the bank of the river Cauvery in Tamil Nadu. From 2005-2010, he was Director of the Perrott-Warrick Project for the study of unexplained human and animal abilities, funded from Trinity College, Cambridge. He is currently a Fellow of the Institute of Noetic Sciences in Petaluma, California and of Schumacher College in Dartington, England. He lives in London. His website is www.sheldrake.org
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'The Journey from the Mind to the Heart'.Listen to the full episode: https://www.sciwizlive.com/podcast/the-journey-from-the-mind-to-the-heart-an-interview-with-fr-laurence-freeman-osb/Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.com/Father Laurence Freeman OSB is a Catholic priest and a Benedictine monk of Monastery of Sta Maria di Pilastrello, in Italy, and the Director of the World Community for Christian Meditation.After completing his studies in theology at the Universite de Montreal and at McGill University, he made his solemn monastic profession in 1979 and was ordained to priesthood in 1980. Together with his spiritual teacher, Fr John Main, he helped to establish Christian Meditation Centres in London and Montreal.After the death of John Main, he continued teaching meditation, and in 1991 returned to England to establish the International Centre of the newly formed World Community for Christian Meditation, which is now present in more than a hundred countries.Author of numerous articles and books on meditation and Christianity, he joined His Holiness the Dalai Lama for a series of dialogues, which inspired the book ‘A Good Heart'.Before entering monastic life, Fr. Laurence studied English Literature at New College, Oxford University, and worked with the United Nations in New York.
This episode is an excerpt of a past Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, 'How Meditation Shapes Our Brain and Helps Us Deal With Negative Emotions'.Listen to the full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1360903/episodes/5925949Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.com/
In this interfaith dialogue moderated by Scott Snibbe, Rabbi Amy Eilberg, Dr. Zachary Markwith, and Tenzin Chogkyi discuss how to process fear and anxiety, what are the differences between these emotions, and how we can deal with them in a skilful way through the wisdom of contemplative traditions.
Today, we share the second part of the dialogue on ‘Meditation, Consciousness, and the Pursuit of Wisdom', which was released last month. Today's episode is a Q&A session with Prof. Marjorie Woollacott, Prof. John Verveke, and Swami Sarvapriyananda. The speakers discuss the interplay between self-inquiry, dialogue, and meditation; how meditation and contemplation can help us live more fulfilling lives by making us more deeply grounded in reality; and what's the connection between the development of wisdom and the experience of non-duality.To hear more about upcoming events, dialogues, e-courses, sign up to our newsletter and check out our website at www.sciwizlive.com.
Our guests today are neuroscientist Prof. Marjorie Woollacott, cognitive scientist Prof. John Verveke, and Swami Sarvapriyananda, a renowned teacher and scholar in the Advaita Vedanta tradition. The speakers discuss the nature and function of consciousness, bringing together different perspectives from the cognitive sciences and various contemplative traditions. Drawing from their research and contemplative experience, they talk about the potential of meditation and mystical experiences, the nature of qualia, the fundamental ground revealed by deep meditative states, and how to develop greater wisdom and insight. Today's dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, host and producer of the meditation podcast ‘a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment'.
The guest of today's episode is Prof. Anil Seth, one of the foremost researchers in the field of consciousness studies. Interviewed by Scott Snibbe, the host of a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment, Anil Seth discusses the nature of consciousness and why, according to modern neuroscience, our perception of the self and of reality is like a hallucination. He also talks about the hard problem of consciousness, quantum mechanics, agency and free will.
Our guest today is Satish Kumar, peace pilgrim, activist, educator, and former Jain monk. He is the founder of Schumacher college and director emeritus of Resurgence and the Ecologist. He is interviewed by Vicki Mackenzie, British journalist and author, discussing his life, ideas, and the connection between ecology, activism and spirituality. This episode was recorded as part of the lighthouse dialogues, a collaboration between Science and Wisdom LIVE and Jamyang London Buddhist Centre.
Today, we share a meditation workshop offered by Scott Snibbe, the host and producer of the meditation podcast ‘A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment', and long-time collaborator of Science & Wisdom LIVE. Scott is a twenty-year student of Tibetan Buddhism, and leads meditations that infuse the pure lineage of the great Buddhist masters with science, humor, and the realities of the modern world.This guided meditation session, inspired by ancient Buddhist techniques, helps us explore a precise series of steps that our consciousness may experience as we die, in order to probe the boundary of life and death with curiosity and wonder._____________Scott Snibbe is a regular guest moderator of Science & Wisdom LIVE during talks and events. He is also the founder and host of the meditation podcast ‘A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment'.Snibbe is a twenty-year student of Tibetan Buddhism whose teachers include Geshe Ngawang Dakpa, Choden Rinpoche, Ven. Rene Feusi, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Inspired by his teachers, he leads meditations that infuse the pure lineage of the great Buddhist masters with science, humor, and the realities of the modern world.Over the course of a career as a digital artist and entrepreneur, Snibbe has created bestselling art, music, and social apps, and collaborated with musicians and filmmakers including Björk, James Cameron, and Philip Glass. His interactive exhibits have been collected by both science and art museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and New York's Museum of Modern Art.
“[In death,] so many people experience – whether or not they had a religious conviction – the surrender to a state of consciousness, a state of being, so much greater than what they thought they were during this lifetime.” Three contemplative scholars and practitioners – Rev. Cynthia Carter Perilliat, Dr. Eva Natanya, and Dr. Nigel Hamilton – explore the difficult topic of mortality. In this episode, they will discuss how we can deal skilfully with the inevitable fact of death, and what can death and dying teach us about life and living. Drawing on the teachings of major religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Sufism, they will also talk about the transformations that our consciousness undergoes during the process of dying, and why meditating on death and impermanence can support our personal growth and the development of inner qualities. This dialogue was recorded as part of our event on Death and Rebirth organised in collaboration with Jamyang London Buddhist Centre, and it was moderated by Scott Snibbe, host and producer of the meditation podcast ‘A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment'.The interview was recorded LIVE during our recent event on ‘Death and Rebirth'. To hear more about upcoming events and courses, please visit our website www.scienceandwisdomlive.com and sign up to our newsletter, YouTube channel, and social media platforms.
Our guest today is Dr. Peter Fenwick, a neuropsychologist who carried out extensive research on near death experiences and the nature of consciousness. Dr. Fenwick is a senior lecturer at King's College London and the consultant neuropsychologist at both the Maudsley and John Radcliffe hospitals. He is also the president of the Horizon Research Foundation and president emeritus of the Scientific and Medical Network. In this episode of Science and Wisdom LIVE, he is interviewed by Venerable Fabienne Pradelle, the Director of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. They discuss our existential fear of death, Near Death Experiences and their connection with personal transformation, and the connection between consciousness and the brain.The interview was recorded LIVE during our recent event on ‘Death and Rebirth'. To hear more about upcoming events and courses, please visit our website www.scienceandwisdomlive.com and sign up to our newsletter, YouTube channel, and social media platforms.“The plain fact is that none of us understands these phenomena. As for the soul and life after death, they are still open questions, though I myself suspect that NDEs are part of the same continuum as mystical experiences.”About our guest:Dr. Peter Fenwick (born 25 May 1935) is a neuropsychiatrist and neurophysiologist who is known for his studies of epilepsy and end-of-life phenomena. Fenwick is a graduate of Trinity College, Cambridge, where he studied Natural Science. He obtained his clinical experience at St Thomas' Hospital.Fenwick is a senior lecturer at King's College, London, where he works as a consultant at the Institute of Psychiatry. He is the Consultant Neuropsychologist at both the Maudsley, and John Radcliffe hospitals, and also provides services for Broadmoor Hospital. He works with the Mental Health Group at the University of Southampton, and holds a visiting professorship at the Riken Neurosciences Institute in Japan.Fenwick is the president of the Horizon Research Foundation, an organisation that supports research into end-of-life experiences. He is the President of the British branch of the International Association for Near-Death Studies. Fenwick has been part of the editorial board for a number of journals including the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, the Journal of Consciousness Studies and the Journal of Epilepsy and Behaviour.Fenwick's interest in near-death experiences was piqued when he read Raymond Moody's book Life After Life. Initially sceptical of Moody's anecdotal evidence, Fenwick reassessed his opinion after a discussion with one of his own patients, who described a near-death experience very similar to that of Moody's subjects. Since then, he has collected and analysed more than 300 examples of near-death experiences. Fenwick argues that human consciousness may be more than just a function of the brain.
In this third interview of the Lighthouse Dialogues, author Vicki MacKenzie enters in conversation with John Butler, a modern mystic and meditator. In this dialogue, John will share his life's journey and his experience of the sacred through meditation, discussing how silence and stillness can lead to feelings of presence, love, and connection with the divine. The simplicity of his words speaks directly to the heart, inviting us to journey deeper towards an inner peace that we always carry within ourselves.The Lighthouse Dialogues is a series of new events, organised in collaboration with Jamyang Buddhist Centre London and Science & Wisdom LIVE. Author Vicki MacKenzie interviews spiritual ‘lighthouses', experienced contemplative practitioners whose wisdom and compassion could function as a lighthouse – a beacon of light and understanding – for our society.The interviews will be focused on the inner experience of people who have dedicated their lives to genuine spiritual search, service, and meditation. We believe that the inner values and qualities developed through lifelong contemplative practice can be profoundly healing for our society and help us move beyond the crises that our world is facing today.At first sight, John Butler is not one to make much of an impression. Quiet, soft-spoken and usually alone, he became known – in the 1970's – as one of the first organic farmers.Having, throughout his life also practiced meditation, 4 years ago, at the age of 79, he was recommended to ConsciousTV, a Youtube channel, focusing on those with experience of higher consciousness. Unwilling at first to face publicity, he was later persuaded to be interviewed. This has since become the most popular item on the channel with 2.5m views.Soon after his debut on ConsciousTV, Phil Shankland found one of John's books in a charity book sale in Sheffield, was interested, came to see him, and then decided to move and live nearby. Encouraged by success on Conscious TV, they decided to make some videos themselves. This developed into the Youtube Spiritual Unfoldment Channel, which presently has over 200,000 subscribers and 15 million views.How has this happened? Though brought up with Christianity and familiar with it, John follows no particular teaching but speaks entirely from his own experience, using examples from nature and simple common sense. Liking the name ‘Mr Nothing', he suggests to his followers, ‘Feel your feet on the ground – listen and look'. Practiced with attention, this brings the mind to rest – in silence, which may then expand into stillness or peace, spaciousness, freedom and an abiding sense of spiritual presence. Traditional religious teaching that, ‘The Lord is with us' begins to come into real life experience.Vicki Mackenzie is a British national journalist and author. She has written six internationally best-selling books including Cave in the Snow (Bloomsbury), featuring Tenzin Palmo; Reincarnation – the Boy Lama (Bloomsbury), featuring Lama Thubten Yeshe and Osel Hita Torres; and recently, The Revolutionary Life of Freda Bedi – British Feminist, Indian Nationalist, Buddhist Nun (Shambhala). Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Our events and podcasts explore the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the nature of consciousness, the ethics of artificial intelligence, the climate crisis, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation.
Trauma can take different forms. One can speak of individual trauma, ancestral trauma, and collective trauma. All of these are happening on different, yet interconnected levels of (all!) our lives. Historically, the word ‘trauma' comes from the Greek, and literally means ‘wound' or can be taken in its active form of ‘to wound'. Although originally the word was taken to mean physical wounding, Sigmund Freud was the first (in his book Beyond the Pleasure Principle of 1920) who would use it in his psychological practice with patients to describe their psychological wounding. Currently, trauma is often defined by its response of fear, anxiety, a feeling of overwhelm, and symptoms like PTSD (Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder).In other words, trauma is the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope, causes feelings of helplessness, diminishes their sense of self and their ability to feel a full range of emotions and experiences. It is also important to recognise that trauma does not discriminate and is pervasive throughout the world. A World Mental Health survey conducted by the World Health Organization found that at least a third of the more than 125,000 people surveyed in 26 different countries had experienced trauma. While there are no objective criteria to evaluate which events will cause post-trauma symptoms, circumstances typically involve the loss of control, betrayal, abuse of power, helplessness, pain, confusion and/or loss. The event need not rise to the level of war, natural disaster, nor personal assault to affect a person profoundly and alter their experiences. Traumatic situations that cause post-trauma symptoms vary quite dramatically from person to person. Indeed, it is very subjective and it is important to bear in mind that it is defined more by its response than its trigger.In this episode of Science & Wisdom LIVE, 3 experts - Deb Dana, Rob Preece, and Dr. David Robinson-Morris - discuss the nature of trauma and how we can deal with it in a skilful way that is healing and transformative. The dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, who is also host and producer of a Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment, and will focus on topics such as the connection between psychological healing and contemplative practices, how to understand trauma through the lenses of polyvagal theory, and the relationship between individual and collective trauma.
Buddhist monk and scholar Geshe Tenzin Namdak enters in conversation with Dr. Pim van Lommel. After working as a cardiologist for 26 years in Rijnstate Hospital, Dr. van Lommel is doing full-time research on the relationship between brain and mind, and is one of the world's leading experts on Near Death Experiences (NDEs).In this dialogue, Geshe Namdak and Dr. van Lommel discuss the origins of our conscious experiences, comparing the insights of Buddhist teachings with modern scientific research on NDEs. They will also explore the relationship between consciousness and quantum phenomena, and explore the transformative power of NDEs and contemplative practices.The dialogue is moderated by Scott Snibbe, host and producer of A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment.______ Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Our events and podcasts explore the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the nature of consciousness, the ethics of artificial intelligence, the climate crisis, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.sciwizlive.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciwizlive Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceandwisdomliveFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sciwizlive
Today's episode is a dialogue between Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault and Wendy Garling, moderated by Vicki Mackenzie. In this dialogue, they will discuss the role of two inspiring women in buddhism and christianity – Mahaprajapati, the woman who raised the Buddha, and Mary Magdalene – and reflect upon archetypal and symbolic figures of womanhood in contemplative traditions.This dialogue was produced in collaboration with Jamyang London Buddhist Centre to celebrate International Women's Day 2022.About our guests:Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeaultis a modern-day mystic, Episcopal priest, writer, and internationally known retreat leader. She is also a longstanding member of the Global Peace Initiative of Women (GPIW). She divides her time between solitude at her seaside hermitage in Maine and tending to a global network of students and practitioners. Her signature contribution to the Christian contemplative reawakening has focused on four main areas: 1) Centering Prayer; 2) The Christian Wisdom Tradition; 3) The Western Esoteric and Fourth Way traditions; 4) The Path of Conscious Love.She has worked closely with fellow teachers and colleagues including Thomas Keating, Bruno Barnhart, and Richard Rohr, and is an emeritus faculty member of the Living School at the Center for Action and Contemplation. Cynthia has actively participated in numerous inter-spiritual dialogues and events with luminaries and leaders such as A.H. Almaas, Kabir Helminski, Swami Atmarupananda, and Rami Shapiro.Cynthia Bourgeault is a longstanding member of the Global Peace Initiative of Women (GPIW). For Cynthia's most current writings, offerings, and her calendar of upcoming events please refer to her personal website: CynthiaBourgeault.orgWendy Garling is a writer, mother, gardener, independent scholar, Tibetan Buddhist practitioner and authorized dharma teacher with a BA from Wellesley College and MA in Sanskrit language and literature from the University of California, Berkeley. She is the author of "Stars at Dawn: Forgotten Stories of Women in the Buddha's Life", a ground-breaking new biography of the Buddha that relates his journey to awakening through the stories of Buddhism's first women and The Woman Who Raised the Buddha. Her dream is to bring back the stories of Buddhism's first women, reawaken their voices, and ensure that they are not just remembered, but valorised as integral to the roots of Buddhism.Vicki Mackenzie is a British national journalist and author. In 1976, while working on The Daily Mail, she stumbled into her first Buddhist meditation course at Kopan, Nepal. This lead to an ongoing journey into Buddhism resulting in many articles for The Sunday Times, The Observer, Sunday Telegraph and many national magazines. She has written six internationally best-selling books including Cave in the Snow (Bloomsbury), featuring Tenzin Palmo; Reincarnation – the Boy Lama (Bloomsbury), featuring Lama Thubten Yeshe and Osel Hita Torres; and recently, The Revolutionary Life of Freda Bedi – British Feminist, Indian Nationalist, Buddhist Nun (Shambhala).About Science & Wisdom LIVE:Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre.Each dialogue explores the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.Find Out More: www.sciwizlive.com
In this second episode of the Lighthouse Dialogues, author Vicki Mackenzie interviews Sister Jayanti Kirpalani, a spiritual teacher for over 50 years, who has dedicated her life to self-transformation and service to humanity. Sister Jayanti continues to champion the co-operative role of spiritual organisations in creating a just and peaceful world, bringing spiritual principles to the discussion tables of politicians, economists, business leaders, scientists and nearly every stakeholder of our times. Sister Jayanti sees the erosion of spiritual values as the underlying cause of the crises the world is facing today.The Lighthouse Dialogues is a series of new events, organised in collaboration with Jamyang Buddhist Centre London and Science & Wisdom LIVE. Twice or thrice a year, author Vicki MacKenzie will interview spiritual 'lighthouses', i.e. inspiring and profoundly wise contemplative practitioners, who could function as a lighthouse – a beacon of light and understanding – for others. The interviews are accessible to the general public via LiveStream, and will also be recorded and made freely available on our Podcast and YouTube channels. Future guests of this series include Satish Kumar, former Jain monk and founder of Schumacher college, and John Butler, Christian contemplative and meditator.______Sister Jayanti Kirpalani is Additional Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris. She is also the Director of Brahma Kumaris activities in Europe and the Middle East. The Brahma Kumaris is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) of the United Nations, accredited with General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and Sister Jayanti is its representative to the UN in Geneva. Since 2009, she has led the Brahma Kumaris delegation to the UN Climate Change Conferences and spoken on many international platforms about spiritual perspectives on the environmental crisis.As a spiritual teacher for over 50 years, Sister Jayanti has dedicated her life to self-transformation and service to humanity. She continues to champion the co-operative role of spiritual organisations in creating a just and peaceful world, bringing spiritual principles to the discussion tables of politicians, economists, business leaders, scientists and nearly every stakeholder of our times. Sister Jayanti sees the erosion of spiritual values as the underlying cause of the crises the world is facing today. ______Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Our events and podcasts explore the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.Find out more: www.sciwizlive.com
Our guest today is Dr. Thupten Jinpa, renowned Buddhist scholar and practitioner, chair of the Mind and Life Institute, and co-founder of the Compassion Institute. Dr. Jinpa holds a PhD in religious studies from Cambridge University, and served for decades as the Dalai Lama's principal translator.In this interview with Scott Snibbe, Dr. Jinpa talks about the relationship between science and Buddhism, discussing the role of critical thinking in contemplative practices and scientific inquiry. He also focuses on the powerful role of compassion, on how ethical principles can help us address the climate crisis, and on the key virtues that promote fulfilling relationships and a harmonious family life.This episode is the fruit of a collaboration between Science & Wisdom LIVE and A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment. A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment draws on modern science and psychology to bring the ancient inner science of Buddhist meditation to twenty-first century people hungry for happy, meaningful lives. Find out more: www.skepticspath.org______Thupten Jinpa Langri was educated in the classical Tibetan monastic academia and received the highest academic degree of Geshe Lharam (equivalent to a doctorate in divinity). Jinpa also holds a BA in philosophy and a PhD in religious studies, both from the University of Cambridge, England. Since 1985, he has been the principal English-language translator to the Dalai Lama. He has translated and edited many books by the Dalai Lama, including The World of Tibetan Buddhism, Essence of the Heart Sutra, and Ethics for the New Millennium. Jinpa has published scholarly articles on various aspects of Tibetan culture, Buddhism, and philosophy, and books such as Songs of Spiritual Experience (co-authored) and Self, Reality and Reason in Tibetan Thought. He serves on the advisory board of numerous educational and cultural organizations in North America, Europe, and India. He is currently the president and the editor-in-chief of the Institute of Tibetan Classics, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to translating key Tibetan classics into contemporary languages. He also currently chairs the Mind and Life Institute.If you'd like to learn more from Dr. Jinpa's, he's currently leading an online course at the Compassion Institute on Building Compassion from the Inside Out. ______Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Our events and podcasts explore the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.Find out more: www.sciwizlive.com
Our guest today is Kim Stanley Robinson, one of the greatest living science fiction writers and one of the few people to have developed a credible solution to the climate crisis. In this interview, he discusses with Scott Snibbe about transcendental experiences, Buddhism in his life and fiction, the outdoors as meditation, and the potentials for space exploration; but the main focus of this episode is the pressing issue of climate change. How can we survive the climate crisis, and what can every one of us do to help?This episode is the fruit of a collaboration between Science & Wisdom LIVE and A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment. A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment draws on modern science and psychology to bring the ancient inner science of Buddhist meditation to twenty-first century people hungry for happy, meaningful lives. Find out more: www.skepticspath.org ______ “Daily life can be devotional, if you treat the world as sacred”“We're on the brink of starting a massive extinction event”“Humanity is an expression of Earth's biosphere”“You should know your carbon burn the same way you know your weight on a scale”“Spend more time outdoors than you usually do. It's great for you, and it's fun!” ______Kim Stanley Robinson is an American science fiction writer. He is the author of more than 20 books, including the international bestselling Mars trilogy: Red Mars,Green Mars, Blue Mars, and more recently Red Moon, New York 2140, and 2312, which was a New York Times bestseller nominated for all seven of the major science fiction awards—a first for any book. 2008 he was named a “Hero of the Environment” by Time magazine, and he works with the Sierra Nevada Research Institute, the Clarion Writers' Workshop, and UC San Diego's Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination. Stanley Robinson has won the Hugo, Nebula, Locus, and World Fantasy awards. In 2016 he was given the Heinlein Award for lifetime achievement in science fiction, and asteroid 72432 was named “Kimrobinson.” In 2017 he was given the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Imagination in Service to Society.Find out more: https://www.kimstanleyrobinson.info/______ Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Our events and podcasts explore the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health. Find out more: www.sciwizlive.com
Can inner shifts in perspectives help us respond more skilfully to the climate and environmental crisis?In this third Science & Wisdom LIVE dialogue, Dr. Vandana Shiva, Dr. Stephan Harding, and Dr. David Loy discuss the urgent topic of the climate emergency and environmental crisis. This Dialogue is a collaboration between Science & Wisdom LIVE and The Global Tree Initiative.As scientists and activists warn us about the potential dangers ahead, new paradigms are emerging to help us navigate the challenges of our times. Deep Ecology invites us to experience (and act from) a deep feeling of our interconnectedness with the natural world. Similarly, contemplative practices (such as mindfulness and meditation) can deepen our sense of oneness with the living universe around usDoes a skilful response to the environmental crisis follow spiritual development and a more mature awareness of our interdependence with nature? And how can we act in the world without becoming depressed or feeling powerless in the face of climate emergency?Dr. Vandana Shiva, Dr. Stephan Harding, and Dr. David Loy discuss the outcome of the recent COP26, how we can understand the climate emergency as a dysregulation of Earth's self-regulation, and how the environmental crisis reflects a deeper crisis of values in Western civilization. They advocate a shift from a mechanistic understanding of the world towards a deeply spiritual science, inspired by the feeling of deep connection with the Earth, and talk about the kind of spiritual practices that help us cultivate our sense of belonging to the living planet and act selflessly, without attachment to the results of our actions.
Prof. Carlo Rovelli enters in dialogue with Geshe Tenzin Namdak on the connections between Buddhist philosophy, as exposed by the scholar scholar Arya Nagarjuna, and the discoveries of modern quantum physics.This teaser is an excerpt of Science and Wisdom LIVE's upcoming e-Learning course on 'Buddhist Philosophy & Quantum Physics', which will be launched in the coming months in collaboration with Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. Besides Dr. Rovelli and Geshe Namdak, the course will also feature Prof. John Dunne and Dr. Michel Bitbol.Find out more on our website: https://www.sciwizlive.com/e-learning/ABOUT THE SPEAKERSProf. Carlo Rovelli is a theoretical physicist known for his work in quantum gravity. Born in Italy he has worked in the United States, France and Canada. He has founded the Quantum Gravity group at Aix-Marseille University. He is also a member of the Institute Universitaire de France, honorary professor of the Beijing Normal University, Honoris Causa Laureate of the Universidad de San Martin, Buenos Aires, and a member of the Académie Internationale de Philosophie des Sciences. In 1995 he has been awarded the Xanthopoulos Award for “the best relativist worldwide under forty”. Prof. Rovelli has written several global best sellers among which are Seven Brief Lesson on Physics, which was translated in 44 languages, The Order of Time, and the recent Helgoland on quantum theory. He has been included by the Foreign Policy magazine in the 2019 list of the 100 most influential global thinkers.Geshe Tenzin Namdak first worked as an environmental researcher having graduated in hydrology from Van Hall Larenstein University, The Netherlands. He started studying Buddhism at Maitreya Institute in 1993 and took ordination from His Holiness the Dalai Lama before engaging in his formal studies in Buddhist philosophy and psychology at Sera Jey Monastic University, South India, in 1997. He completed the entire twenty-year Geshe program at Sera Jey in 2017 and the traditional one year Vajrayana study program at Gyume Tantric College in January 2019, the first Westerner to do so. Because of his deep interest and background in science and as a member of Sera Jey's Education Department he spoke on and organized various dialogues and conferences on contemporary science and ancient contemplative wisdom of the mind and its philosophy. Currently, he is the resident teacher at Jamyang Buddhist Centre, London, and teaches worldwide.Scott Snibbe is a pioneering interactive artist and augmented reality entrepreneur, is the host of the meditation podcast A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment. Snibbe is a twenty-year student of Tibetan Buddhism whose teachers include Geshe Ngawang Dakpa, Choden Rinpoche, Ven. Rene Feusi, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Inspired by his teachers, he leads meditations that infuse the pure lineage of the great Buddhist masters with science, humor, and the realities of the modern world. Over the course of a career as a digital artist and entrepreneur, Snibbe has created bestselling art, music, and social apps, and collaborated with musicians and filmmakers including Björk, James Cameron, and Philip Glass. His interactive exhibits have been collected by both science and art museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and New York's Museum of Modern Art.About Science & Wisdom LIVE:Science & Wisdom LIVE is a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre.Each dialogue explores the middle ground between science and contemplative wisdom, focusing on themes such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, gender equality, climate change, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for mental health.Find Out More: www.sciwizlive.com
In this first interview of the Lighthouse Dialogues, author Vicki Mackenzie enters in conversation with Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo: a Buddhist nun who has taught Dharma internationally and is the founder of Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Tashi Jong, India. Her life is the subject of Vicki Mackenzie's book Cave in the Snow.In this dialogue, Jetsunma and Vicki discuss how to connect our hart with our rational mind, what it means to be a monastic in the 21st century, how psychic pollution is as urgent as environmental pollution, and how to bring more mindfulness and joy into our lives.The Lighthouse Dialogues is a series of new events, organised in collaboration with Jamyang Buddhist Centre London and Science & Wisdom LIVE. Twice or thrice a year, author Vicki MacKenzie will interview spiritual 'lighthouses', i.e. inspiring and profoundly wise contemplative practitioners, who could function as a lighthouse – a beacon of light and understanding – for others. The interviews are accessible to the general public via LiveStream, and will also be recorded and made freely available on our Podcast and YouTube channels.About Our Speakers:Born in Britain, Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo met her teacher, the eighth Khamtrul Rinpoche, in India in 1964. She was one of the first Westerners ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun. After studying with her teacher for six years, she went to a small monastery in Lahaul, India, where she practiced more intensely. Seeking better conditions for meditation, she lived in a cave in the mountains in Lahaul for twelve years, after which, in 1988, she went to Italy.She has taught Dharma internationally and is the founder of Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Tashi Jong, India, where she now lives. Her life is the subject of the book Cave in the Snow, written by author Vicki Mackenzie.In February 2008, Tenzin Palmo was given the rare title of Jetsunma, which means Venerable Master, by His Holiness the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa, Head of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage in recognition of her spiritual achievements as a nun and her efforts in promoting the status of female practitioners in Tibetan Buddhism. Vicki Mackenzie is a British national journalist and author. In 1976, while working on The Daily Mail, she stumbled into her first Buddhist meditation course at Kopan, Nepal. This lead to an ongoing journey into Buddhism resulting in many articles for The Sunday Times, The Observer, Sunday Telegraph and many national magazines. She has written six internationally best-selling books including Cave in the Snow (Bloomsbury), featuring Tenzin Palmo; Reincarnation – the Boy Lama (Bloomsbury), featuring Lama Thubten Yeshe and Osel Hita Torres; and recently, The Revolutionary Life of Freda Bedi – British Feminist, Indian Nationalist, Buddhist Nun (Shambhala).
In this episode of Science & Wisdom LIVE, Scott Snibbe interviews Stephan Harding, Deep Ecology Research Fellow and founding member of Schumacher collegeStephan will discuss his work as an educator at Schumacher College, James Lovelock's Gaia theory, and the role of intuition in scientific research and ecological thinking. He will also discuss which kind of practices can deepen our connection with Nature and our experience of being part of the living planet.
Our guest today is Dr. David Loy, Professor of Buddhist and Comparative Philosophy, writer, and teacher in the Zen tradition of Japanese Buddhism. Together with Vandana Shiva and Stephan Harding, David will be one of the speakers at the upcoming Science and Wisdom dialogue on Deep Ecology, Mindfulness, and Climate Emergency on the 9th of December.In today's interview with Scott Snibbe, he discusses the necessity of engaging with the world and transcending duality as part of one's contemplative practice; how Buddhism and other contemplative traditions change in response to the needs of the contemporary world; and how to respond appropriately to the challenges of our time, without falling into the extremes of indifference or despair.They will also talk about the need to deepen our relation with, and love for, Nature and wilderness; how personal transformation is necessary in order to enable collective growth; and how Buddhism and other contemplative teachings can help us face what Noam Chomsky called "the most dangerous moment ever in human history".