Vipassana Meditation and the Scientific World View

by Paul R. Fleischman

We have lived in an era during which the spirituality intrinsic to science has become obvious.The universe is not random. It contains patterns and paths. This is called the information-state of the universe, and it organizes the materials and energies that form our bodies and minds. We are each microcosms; downloaded into our small selves are a vast array of directives and limits, the laws of science, that govern stars as well as our hearts and minds. We can gain access to some of the wisdom of this universal, lawful reality through meditation. As we observe our body sensations with equanimity, we come in contact with basic laws of physics, like entropy, or the decay of aggregates over time, and we also encounter basic laws of psychology, like the fact that social love, Mettā, leaves us happier than anger or fear. We may become self-balanced to face contingencies. It is science, not mysticism or religion, that reveals the value of Vipassana as a vestibule to ultimate realities, and highlights it as a practical guide to the psychology of well-lived lives. We are each unique snowflakes, patterns and lace, melting in the cosmic storm. We arise and pass inside a universe, a web, a Dhamma. We become aware of the scriptures that are inscribed inside us and that guide our wellbeing.

Genres: Nonfiction, Buddhism, Self Help

39 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2010

About the author

Paul R.Fleischman’s legacy book, "Wonder: When and Why the World Appears Radiant" expresses Dr. Fleischman’s knowledge as a psychiatrist, scientist, meditator, poet, lover of literature, and world traveler. Each chapter builds on the next and takes the reader deeper and deeper into the understanding of human life’s connection to all life. Readers of the book say that the writing is powerful and the concepts build on themselves like a suspense novel. Wonder makes an impression that commands full attention. The book makes a significant contribution by bridging the two domains of scientific and religious cosmology, and it does so with inspiration and elegance. It connects the dots of biology, physics, and spirituality and helps to crystallize thoughts, and to generate new thoughts and insights. Paul R. Fleischman is also the author of, "Cultivating Inner Peace: Exploring the Psychology,Wisdom and Poetry of Gandhi, Thoreau, the Buddha, and Others," "Karma and Chaos," "You Can Never Speak Up Too Often for the Love of All Things," "The Healing Spirit: Explorations in Religion and Psychotherapy," "Spiritual Aspects of Psychiatric Practice," "Vipassana Meditation: Healing the Healer and the Experience of Impermanence," and "The Buddha Taught Nonviolence, Not Pacifism."

Reviews

[Paulo Behar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most clear and useful explanation with contemporary and secular words

The most clear and useful explanation of the connection between Vipassana meditation, with contemporary and secular words! I needed this explanation in order to better situate myself in the practice of meditation and in the life. Thank you doc!

[Carolina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Is not a bad book but it wasn’t for me, I expected something else

[Tom Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is one of the most eloquent description of science and Vipassana. I had to stop a number of times in awe whilst reading. It appeals to my western sensibilities !