BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY

Catalog description

Buddhism is an ancient and spiritual system, but at its core are psychological principles aimed at reducing suffering and increasing well-being. Many of these concepts mirror research findings in modern psychology and neuroscience. This course will examine these basic principles of Buddhism and compare it to modern scientific findings. Topics to be covered will include mindfulness, attention, the causes and cessation of suffering, karma (intentional choices and their consequences), concepts of reality and the self, kindness, altruism, ethics, and self-transcendence. Meditation instruction and practice will be an integral portion of the course.