Contemplative Science: Where Buddhism and Neuroscience Converge (Columbia Series in Science and Religion)

List Price: $32.00 Discount Price: $22.83

Customer Reviews:

scientifically clear [Posted on 2008-02-18]
the perfect book to understand the link between science and the arts of the mind.
well written and clearly presented

Not quite what it suggests [Posted on 2008-03-07]
Readers be warned: the subtitle to this book,"Where Buddhism and Neuroscience Converge" is quite misleading--there are only a few very cursory references to anything about neuroscience. Based on the title and introduction, I purchased this assuming it might explain how scientific research on the brain illuminates the practice of meditation and the contemplative tradition (and vice-versa). It does not. For those interested in the connection between meditation and Western neuroscience, you'll find little here to satisfy you.

The book you want is Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain, by Sharon Begley. The unfortunate title suggests little more than standard pop-psych self-help, but Ms. Begley's book provides a solid, readable account of neuroscience research from the last 10-15 years that relates specifically to the potential changes brought about in the brain through the practice of meditation, including recent studies on the brains of highly experienced meditators. I cannot recommend that book highly enough.

Contemplative Science [Posted on 2008-04-09]
good shape copy of a good readable book. arrived quickly
would have preferred paperback but was ok.

good place to start [Posted on 2008-06-11]
dr wallace is a sophisticated scientist who is very experienced in talking about the details of buddhism. he understands the thousands of years of studying the mind from a buddhist perspectice and how to integrate it with modern science. he has the input of the dalai lama too, having been a translator for him for years. i encourage the serious reader to take a look.

A very informative read. [Posted on 2008-07-15]
B. Alan Wallace is a leading scholar and author on this subject. His way of writing in simple language about complicated concepts makes for very informative and fascinating reading. His insights can bring about a major shift in our perception of the relationship between science and spirituality.

Click here for more details and discount information...