We’re joined again this week by Brown University neuroscience researcher Willougbhy Britton. Willougbhy begins this episode by going into further depth into some of the typical experiences that have been reported during her research into the difficult stages of the contemplative path. She lists out typical changes in cognition, affect (emotion), perception, and other psychological material. She also explores the typical duration of these experiences and explores some of the philosophical and practical ramifications of these stages.
Toward the end she also speaks about how she and her colleagues–all part of this emerging group of contemplative scientist hybrids–have come together to create a new contemplative development mapping project. This new generation of scientists are studying the mind, and have immersed themselves not only in scientific methodologies but also in contemplative practice.
This is part 2 of a two-part series. Listen to part 1, The Dark Side of Dharma.
Episode Links:
Willoughby Britton @ Brown University ( http://research.brown.edu/myresearch/Willoughby_Britton )
Britton Lab ( http://www.brittonlab.com )
Mind and Life Institute ( http://www.mindandlife.org )
Cheetah House ( https://cheetahhouse.wordpress.com )
Brown University Contemplative Studies Initiative ( http://bit.ly/rOnze )