Sunday, March 4, 2018

Why Buddhism Is True

Just finished reading "Why Buddhism Is True" by Robert Wright.  Suggested to me by cousin Bruce Linton, and I am so glad he did.  This book investigates the workings of our human minds from a standpoint of evolutionary psychology, and illuminates how many of our basic tendencies of mind, evolved over millennia, are often counterproductive in our current cultural situation (no longer hunter-gatherers or agriculturists living in small groups).  He argues that some of the basic tenets of Buddhism correlate to some findings of modern science, and that these insights can be used, through meditative practices, towards more acceptance of others, gratefulness, loving-kindness, and happiness in our lives.  Not just theory, but many anecdotes from the author's personal experiences, and the writings and thinking of others in the field.  Several times I found myself realizing: "I never thought about it this way before.  He's right!"  (No pun intended).  The book is both scientific and philosophical, without being theological.  If you are meditating, or want to consider it for your future, I strongly recommend this book.

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