Outline & Learning outcomes
In the first two modules of this course, Dr. Michel Bitbol and Prof. John Dunne examine the topic of appearance and reality, drawing on modern science, Buddhism, and Western philosophy. They also investigate the relationship between mind and reality, both in quantum physics and Buddhist epistemology, and the problem of discrimination between our models of the world and its ultimate nature.
Learning material: Presentations by Prof. John Dunne and Dr. Michel Bitbol; notes, explanations, and diagrams; revision material; additional reading material; self-assessment questionnaire.
Learning outcomes: Be able to analyse and contemplate the nature of the mind in the context of quantum mechanics and Buddhist philosophy. Deepen your understanding of epistemology, or how our minds can know the world. Learn to use ideas and tools from modern science and Buddhism to explore and investigate the nature of reality.
Module content
Lesson 1: What is Quantum Mechanics?
Lesson 2: Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics
Lesson 1: Appearance and Reality in Western thought
Lesson 2: Buddhist Epistemology & Quantum physics
Lesson 1: Buddhist Epistemology
Lesson 2: Models of the world
Lesson 3: Illusion and Reality
Bonus Material: Q&A with Prof. John Dunne and Dr. Michel Bitbol
Lesson 1: Nagarjuna & Quantum mechanics
Lesson 2: Bias, Discrimination, and Models of the World
Lesson 1: The Nature of the Observer
Lesson 2: The Mind and the Brain
Q&A with Prof. Carlo Rovelli and Geshe Tenzin Namdak
Part 1: Analysis of Objects
