Buddhist Theory and Practice in Contemporary Models of Consciousness

Explore how ancient Buddhist traditions and their understanding of consciousness can contribute to modern mathematical models in this 23-minute conference talk from the Models of Consciousness Conference. Delve into the Abhidharma and Yogācāra school's perspective of consciousness as a dynamic process within the Mind-ground, following the twelve links of dependent origination. Learn how the Chan school (Zen's predecessor) incorporated these concepts into contemplative practices focused on understanding the mind's workings. Consider the Chan/Zen tradition's cautionary stance on conceptual models, whether linguistic or mathematical, and examine how these ancient insights can inform current consciousness modeling approaches. Investigate key features of Buddhist models and their relevance to contemporary developments, particularly regarding conscious agency, time, and the fundamental approach to model-building itself.