Is Buddhism Scientific and Rational? | Philosophy Symposium
23 – 26 MAy | Led by Abhayadhara, Dhivan + Ketumati
Our annual philosophy symposiums are opportunities for in-depth talks and discussions on philosophical themes. In 2025 we will explore the philosopher Evan Thompson’s short book entitled Why I am Not a Buddhist (2020), in which he presents arguments against the idea that Buddhism is exceptional among world religions for its rationality and science-friendliness. Is he right? And is this science-friendly secular Buddhism really Buddhism?
Reception is from 4pm on the day of arrival, with the retreat beginning with supper at 6pm.
While you’re here you will be participating in communal life. This includes meditating with everyone on site in the main shrine room in the morning, taking part in daily tasks and at the end of your retreat you will help us to prepare the retreat centre for the next group to join us.
With this in mind, the retreat will finish after the clear-up, so if travelling on public transport, please book a train after 3pm.
Single rooms are fully booked, please contact the office to be added to the waiting list. Please note that for this retreat we are only able to offer upstairs accommodation.
For: Order Members and Mitras
Start date: 23rd May 2025
End date: 26th May 2025
Event Type: Residential
Price: Standard £190 | Concession £145 | Financial Assistance £110
Please note that the payment includes a non-refundable and non-transferrable deposit of £50.
Bursary Fund: Help those who can't afford to come on retreat
You're invited to donate to enable individuals experiencing financial hardship to attend events with bursary places.
Go to our Bursary Fund page