Philosophical and scientific theories of consciousness are closely related to the processed involved in meditation practices, and Buddhist perspectives have made key contributions in this area. Presenting some of the relevant research at the intersection of Buddhism and science, this talk will
focus especially on the key role that “reflexive awareness” (Skt. svasaṃvedanā; Tib. rang rig) plays in this area of academic inquiry.
John D. Dunne (PhD 1999, Harvard University) holds the Distinguished Chair in Contemplative Humanities, an endowed position created through the
Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is also distinguished professor in the Department of Asian Languages & Cultures, where he currently serves as department Chair.
John Dunne’s work focuses on Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practice, especially in dialog with Cognitive Science and Psychology. His publications appear in venues ranging across both the Humanities and the Sciences, and they include works on Buddhist philosophy, contemplative practice and their interpretation within scientific, philosophical and cultural
contexts. He spoke with students and participants at RYI on 18th Oct, 2023.