When the Dalai Lama speaks on the relationship of science and religion, you may be surprised by what he says. When he visited the Society for Neuroscience to discuss pursuing further, more detailed research into the benefits of meditation on the brain, the Dalai Lama expressed what some may find a surprising stance on the debate over science and religion.
According to the publication, the Dalai Lama's scientific awakening came when he "looked through a telescope and on seeing the shadows in the craters of the moon, realized he had to make a choice." While Buddhism taught him to respect the moon as a generator of light, science showed him that the moon reflected the sun's rays. In the end, he chose to believe science, but he didn't give up his religion.
Likewise, the Dalai Lama says that in his current dealings politically and otherwise, he favors scientific evidence over classical Buddhist concepts. But he says the two needn't cancel each other out. While American judiciaries battle over religion-free science education, the Lama urges people to take a path of peace between the perspectives. He suggested a healthy dose of skepticism toward religious pronouncements according to the publication, while supporting faith.
"Although science can overturn spiritual teachings, people can benefit from scientific understanding without losing faith," he reasoned.
The Tibetan leader also emphasized that religion can help science, not just hinder it, using meditation as his example. Specifically, he urged neuroscientists not to discount the role of the Buddhist tradition on the brain.
"Try to find reality with an open mind," he said, referring both to investigations in science as well as to studies in Buddhist thought. "Without investigation, we can't see reality."
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