Zen-Brain Reflections
James H. Austin <../../catalog/author/default.asp?aid=82>
Table of Contents and Sample Chapters
<../../catalog/item/default.asp?ttype=2&tid=10764&mode=toc>
This sequel to the widely read Zen and the Brain continues James
Austin's explorations into the key interrelationships between Zen
Buddhism and brain research.
In Zen-Brain Reflections, Austin, a clinical neurologist, researcher,
and Zen practitioner, examines the evolving psychological processes and
brain changes associated with the path of long-range meditative
training. Austin draws not only on the latest neuroscience research and
new neuroimaging studies but also on Zen literature and his personal
experience with alternate states of consciousness.
Zen-Brain Reflections takes up where the earlier book left off. It
addresses such questions as: how do placebos and acupuncture change the
brain? Can neuroimaging studies localize the sites where our notions of
self arise? How can the latest brain imaging methods monitor meditators
more effectively?
How do long years of meditative training plus brief enlightened states
produce pivotal transformations in the physiology of the brain? In many
chapters testable hypotheses suggest ways to correlate normal brain
functions and meditative training with the phenomena of extraordinary
states of consciousness.
After briefly introducing the topic of Zen and describing recent
research into meditation, Austin reviews the latest studies on the
amygdala, frontotemporal interactions, and paralimbic extensions of the
limbic system. He then explores different states of consciousness, both
the early superficial absorptions and the later, major "peak
experiences."
This discussion begins with the states called kensho and satori and
includes a fresh analysis of their several different expressions of
"oneness." He points beyond the still more advanced states toward that
rare ongoing stage of enlightenment that is manifest as "sage wisdom."
Finally, with reference to a delayed "moonlight" phase of kensho, Austin
envisions novel links between migraines and metaphors, moonlight and
mysticism.
The Zen perspective on the self and consciousness is an ancient one.
Readers will discover how relevant Zen is to the neurosciences, and how
each field can illuminate the other.
About the Author
James H. Austin, clinical neurologist, researcher, and Zen practitioner,
is Professor Emeritus of Neurology at the University of Colorado Health
Sciences Center and Clinical Professor of Neurology at the University of
Missouri (Columbia) School of Medicine. He is the author of Zen and the
Brain, Chase, Chance, and Creativity, and Zen-Brain Reflections, all
published by the MIT Press.
Endorsements
"A monumental melding of wisdom from Zen and other contemplative
traditions with modern neuroscience. This extraordinary synthesis will
serve as an important resource for many years to come. A must-read for
any serious student of the emerging discipline of contemplative
neuroscience."
Richard J. Davidson, William James and Vilas Research Professor of
Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison
"In Zen and the Brain, James Austin quoted Einstein's dictum that
'Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.'
Neurophysiological studies help us understand the biological bases of
behavior, but attempting to understand experience is a heroic pursuit.
In this sequel, Zen-Brain Reflections, Austin continues his quest of
allowing us to better grasp how Zen practices influence and alter brain
functions. His quest is not complete, but in this new book he reviews
and synthesizes the substantial progress that has been made in
understanding the biological basis of Zen experience, providing the
reader with further enlightenment."
Kenneth M. Heilman, James E. Rooks Jr. Distinguished Professor of
Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine
"Following his monumental masterpiece Zen and the Brain, James Austin
here presents further reflections on the koan 'How do neural mechanisms
create enlightened consciousness?' This superb sequel not only reviews
the most recent relevant neuroscience research but also stands alone as
a readable survey of mind-brain relationships underlying the spectrum of
mental states. Austin's unique expertise as a neurologist and Zen
practitioner, as well as an articulate writer, makes him the perfect
guide to elucidate the profound interrelationships between
consciousness, the brain, and the world."
Eberhard E. Fetz, Professor of Physiology & Biophysics, University
of Washington
http://mitpress.mit.edu/catalog/item/default.asp?ttype=2&tid=10764
<http://mitpress.mit.edu/catalog/item/default.asp?ttype=2&tid=10764> ,
Endorsements
"A monumental melding of wisdom from Zen and other contemplative
traditions with modern neuroscience. This extraordinary synthesis will
serve as an important resource for many years to come. A must-read for
any serious student of the emerging discipline of contemplative
neuroscience."
Richard J. Davidson, William James and Vilas Research Professor of
Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison
"In Zen and the Brain, James Austin quoted Einstein's dictum that
'Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.'
Neurophysiological studies help us understand the biological bases of
behavior, but attempting to understand experience is a heroic pursuit.
In this sequel, Zen-Brain Reflections, Austin continues his quest of
allowing us to better grasp how Zen practices influence and alter brain
functions. His quest is not complete, but in this new book he reviews
and synthesizes the substantial progress that has been made in
understanding the biological basis of Zen experience, providing the
reader with further enlightenment."
Kenneth M. Heilman, James E. Rooks Jr. Distinguished Professor of
Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine
"Following his monumental masterpiece Zen and the Brain, James Austin
here presents further reflections on the koan 'How do neural mechanisms
create enlightened consciousness?' This superb sequel not only reviews
the most recent relevant neuroscience research but also stands alone as
a readable survey of mind-brain relationships underlying the spectrum of
mental states. Austin's unique expertise as a neurologist and Zen
practitioner, as well as an articulate writer, makes him the perfect
guide to elucidate the profound interrelationships between
consciousness, the brain, and the world."
Eberhard E. Fetz, Professor of Physiology & Biophysics, University
of Washington
