Topics in Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience (470-0-2)

Topic

Buddhist Psychology

Instructors

Marcia Grabowecky
847/467-3044
306 Cresap

Meeting Info

Lutkin Hall: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Generally describe the class here. Include assignment and project information, if desired.

Buddhism is most often considered a religion, but it is also very much a psychological system. The course also provides a concise introduction to key concepts in Buddhism (with minimal discussion of the evolution of different Buddhist schools and sects) and how these ideas relate to topics from main-stream Psychology. As students work through the material, we will examine how the critical Buddhist observation of interdependence, especially of all living beings and their environment, leads to an ethical system based on the view that harming others is also harming oneself. Implications of these foundational concepts will be investigated in relation to class materials.

Learning Objectives

Students will be expected to understand the essential principles of Buddhism and how these form a psychological system. They will also be expected to understand how evidence from scientific psychology is consistent or inconsistent with Buddhist psychology.

Evaluation Method

Students will document and reflect on their experience with the in class and homework meditation practices in 3 meditation logs which count 10% towards the class grade.

Class Materials (Required)

Thich Nhat Hanh (1996), The Miracle of Mindfulness: A Manual on Meditation. Beacon Press;
ISBN: 0807012327, 1996

Class Materials (Suggested)

Matthieu Ricard (2006), Happiness: A guide to developing life' s most important skill. Little, Brown ISBN 0316057835

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-requisite: Student must be part of the Psychology PhD program to enroll.