The Intersectionality Between Buddhism, Consciousness, and Quantum Physics

Lars Jaeger

Kinuko Bessho

Michal Abrams, T. X. Thuan

Matthieu Ricard

David Leong

This study illuminates the intriguing parallels between Buddhism, consciousness, and the principles of quantum physics. It engages in a nuanced exploration of the Buddhist concept of _pratītya-samutpāda_, or ‘dependent origination,’ and its resonance with quantum theory's elucidation of the interconnectedness and non-locality in the universe. The paper presents a cross-disciplinary dialogue, bridging the spiritual wisdom of Buddhism with quantum theory's frontier understanding of reality through observation and consciousness at the _Trikaya_ realms, and discusses consciousness’s place within this nexus. By doing so, the study endeavours to enhance our comprehension of the subjective ‘self’ in relation to the temporality of the objective ‘reality’ as portrayed in both spiritual and scientific discourses. This intersectionality offers new insights and perspectives on the nature of consciousness and reality, potentially stimulating further research in physics and philosophy.

Menas C. Kafatos

What can modern science and particularly quantum theory say about consciousness? What is the nature of consciousness? What is the connection between perennial philosophies, such as Zen Buddhism, and modern science, and what do they say about consciousness? How does the individual fit into the large scheme of things?