Religion and Science: Mindfulness and Modern Psychology AT

In this course we will explore the theory and practice of Buddhism Mindfulness meditation and its application and study in modern psychology. We will first examine Mindfulness in its historical context, as taught by the Buddha in ancient India and further developed in pre-modern Burma. We will consider its current application in clinical settings in the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program and then explore the science of emotions and meditation, addressing multiple theoretical and methodological issues. We will also discuss the cross-cultural psychology of adapting traditional meditation to a modern, individualistic, and therapeutic context. In addition to class meetings, students will participate in a clinical trial of Mindfulness throughout the semester. 3 hrs. lect.