Philosophy Symposium: Exploring Buddhist Modernism

Led by Dhivan, Matt Drage + Sīlavādin

How modern western ideas shape western Buddhism

What cultural and historical forces have made Western Buddhism possible? How have modern revolutions in philosophy and psychology, such as Kant’s claim that our world is mind-dependent, and William James' focus on the "experience" of the individual, shaped the way we understand the Buddha's teachings? How does the naturalistic worldview of modern science influence how we interpret the doctrines of 'dependent arising' and rebirth? How does romanticism – with its blending of the imagination, the arts, individualism and Christian spirituality – inform the way we have come to understand the Buddhist path?

In this symposium we want to explore how we cannot help looking at the Dharma in terms of these paradigms, although we might not be aware of doing so (or especially if we are not aware). We also want to explore how these paradigms have played a role in Sangharakshita's thinking and teaching.

The retreat will start with dinner at 18:00 and you are welcome to arrive on site after 16:00, it will end at 14:30 on the last day.

For three-day events full payment is required at booking, which includes a £78 non-refundable deposit.

For: all levels of experience

Start date: 24th Jan 2020
End date: 27th Jan 2020
Event Type: Residential

Price: Waged/Supported £111  |  Unwaged/Unsupported £78
No deposit

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Bookings are closed for this Event.