Mindfulness and the Mind: Buddhist and Western Perspectives

In this course we will learn about the theory and practice of mindfulness in Asian Buddhism, how to analyze its original sources in translation, and to assess its developments in the modern West. We will first examine the origins, techniques and aims of mindfulness in traditional Buddhism, reading original sources, and then examine how these were transformed and transmitted to the West, focusing on the processes of secularization and psychologization that enabled its popularization. We will read scientific studies assessing the psychological benefits of meditation and observe how it is implemented in modern institutions. In the practicum part of the class, for two hours a week students will learn mindfulness and other meditation techniques from an experienced local teacher.