佛教=Buddhism; 禪修經驗=meditation experiences; 心識=mind or consciousness; 因果關聯作用力=power of causation; 身心互動=interaction of mind-body; 心識的科學化研究=scientific study of consciousness
This paper attempts a small dialogue between science and religion. On the science side, we choose the science of the mind, which is represented by scientific studies of consciousness and constantly examined in the philosophy of mind. On the religion side, Buddhism is selected, which has a rich tradition of meditative and contemplative practices. The main subject of discussion for both disciplines is focused on some aspects of the power of causation between mind/mental and body/physical. While science prefers a ‘bottom up’ form of causation, Buddhist meditation experiences emphasizes a ‘top-down’ form of causation. From a Buddhist perspective, when the mind is properly cultivated and developed, the mind has certain powers to change mental states as well as influence the physical body. We would further suggest that mental powers directed towards mental phenomena, with perhaps the ability to change brain processes, are significant for the arising of consciousness. In this respect, the study of religious experiences will make important contributions to the scientific study of consciousness.
