John Dunne: 02-01-2014: Zen Brain: Consciousness, Complex Systems, and Transformation (Part 7)

Summary: Episode Description: In this segment of Zen Brain, which coincides conceptually with Neil Theise's talk (Part 1 of this series), John Dunne presents an elegant overview of the evolution of several Buddhist philosophical systems. The goal of all Buddhist systems is the elimination of suffering, suffering which arises due to confusion about the nature of "something." As we progress from early Buddhism, to the Sautrantika system, to Yogacara, then to Madhyamika, and finally to Mahamudra and Dzogchen, that "something" about which we are confused changes. Each system presents a slightly subtler "cause" for our confusion. Importantly, however, no single system can claim to have the best account of reality. No explanatory system is ultimately true. A system is "better" than another only insofar as it is better at eliminating suffering, at leading us to freedom. For Series description and Teacher BIOs, please visit Part 1. To access the entire series, please click on the link below: Zen Brain February 2014 Series: All 12 Parts