“Why Buddhism is True: The Science and Philosophy of Meditation and Enlightenment” by Robert Wright is a compelling exploration of the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and religion. Wright makes use of his own experiences, scientific research, and the principles of Buddhism to argue that the religion’s diagnosis of the human condition is fundamentally accurate and that its prescription is deeply relevant to contemporary life.
The book is premised on the notion of ’natural selection’, a concept inherent to evolutionary psychology, which Wright posits, often leads us towards dissatisfaction and suffering. He suggests that our brains, sculpted by millions of years of natural selection, are hardwired for dissatisfaction. Our desires, anxieties, and even our perceptions are often misleading, causing us to grasp at things or avoid others in ways that only lead to more suffering.
Wright delves into the core teachings of Buddhism, primarily focusing on the concept of ’not-self’, or the idea that the feeling of selfhood is an illusion. This is where the title of the book comes from - Wright’s argument that Buddhism is ’true’ centers around the idea that what we perceive as ‘self’ is a product of evolutionary psychology and not a reflection of any underlying reality.
He also discusses the Four Noble Truths, a central Buddhist teaching that outlines the reality of suffering, its origin, its cessation, and the path to the cessation of suffering. Wright uses these teachings to further explore the idea that our perceptions, desires, and feelings of selfhood often lead us away from true happiness and contentment.
Wright then explores the practice of mindfulness meditation, suggesting that it can help us see the world more clearly and free us from the patterns of thought and behavior that evolutionary psychology has instilled in us. He presents mindfulness as a kind of ‘rebellion’ against natural selection, a way of rewiring our brains that can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.
In conclusion, “Why Buddhism is True” is not just a spiritual book but also a scientific exploration of why humans suffer and how this suffering can be alleviated. Wright’s approachable and engaging writing style, combined with his thorough exploration of both Buddhist philosophy and the science of the mind, make this book a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in psychology, spirituality, and the pursuit of well-being. Please note that while Wright presents a compelling case, his interpretations and conclusions are subject to debate, and readers should approach the material with an open mind.