In 2000, His Holiness the Dalai Lama provided a vision and directive for the exiled Tibetan monastic community in India to engage science, and to initiate science trainings that would eventually support new learning at the frontiers of science and Buddhism. Building upon His Holiness’s long-term interest in engaging scientist in dialogue, the aim of this 3-day public conference is to promote the integration of spiritual values and scientific investigations. This conference brings together Buddhist scholars, and western and Indian scientists into dialogue about topics of mutual common interest. The conference will thus promote the dialogue that probes the interface of spiritual values and scientific investigations.
Conference Slideshow
Conference Themes
Life & Consciousness in the Universe:
Astrobiological and Buddhist perspectives on life and mind in the universe. Under what conditions, and where might life and consciousness flourish? Is there a connection between cosmology and consciousness and how do these investigations impact our sense of place in the world we inhabit?
Nature of Mind & Consciousness:
How do concepts from the cognitive sciences and neurobiology interface with concepts from Buddhism and other contemplative traditions? What are the relationships among mind, consciousness, and brain? What are the various perspectives on the survival of consciousness after death?
- Does One Need to be Conscious to Have Consciousness? : Buddhist & Neuroscientific Perspectives on Consciousness
- Geshe Lobsang Negi
Limits of Knowledge & Knowing:
What are the possible limits to theories of the very large and the very small? Can the currant scientific paradigm facilitate a deep understanding of consciousness?
Awareness, Emotion & Behavior:
Investigating the relationships between the physical brain, the mind, behavior, and our emotions. Exploring cognitive science and Buddhist notions of mind, happiness, and peace.
- Sleep: A Window to Evaluate Neurophysiological Correlates of Higher States of Consciousness
- Dr. P.N. Ravindra
The conference is open to the public. The conference will primarily reach the Tibetan community and we expect approximately 300 to 400 people to attend at least part of the 3-day event. If you have any questions about attending the conference please contact the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives: science@ltwa.net
