“Buddhism and Science” by Donald Lopez Jr., a book that issues the most notable differences between the two.
There are parallels between Buddhist contemplative practices and the scientific method, with the rejection of blind faith and the emphasis on unbiased investigation of phenomena essential to both modes of inquiry. However, there are also differences. In its investigations science is limited to the study of that which is publicly verifiable, can be measured, and can be repeated at will. Introspective inquiries carried on by Buddhist meditators are not. Most scientists today take as basic premises for their work a number of unproven assertions that Buddhist cannot agree with. Most notable among these is the belief that the mind is merely a phenomenon created by the workings of the brain.
Hypotheses and theories arise in the human mind. They are not embedded in the external world. Subjective experience is the central feature of our life. The Buddhist contention is that any search for abiding truths which depends on ignoring that fact only ever be partially successful.
Despite these and certain other differences between Buddhism and science, it must be acknowledged that many Buddhist feel their views are more in tune with those of secular scientist that the views of most other religious traditions.
More questions and answers HERE
Source:
- Without and Within – Ajahn Jayasaro
