THE SCIENCE OF MIND
About
On the function of minds and mental factorsBuddhism is often called "the science of mind." It is regarded as a science, for instead of being based on faith or divine revelation, it is grounded in direct observation, analysis, and the transformation of our mental experience.
In terms of direct observation the Buddha taught that truth should be verified by personal experience and direct observation, not blind belief. Just as scientists observe external phenomena to discover natural laws, we should observe inner phenomena such as our thoughts, emotions, and experience to discover how the mind functions. The four noble truths and dependent origination are like scientific principles describing the causes and conditions of our experience both positive and negative, moment by moment. In terms of analysis, Buddhist Abhidharma analyzes the mind in minute detail, classifying the structure and function of minds and mental factors. Modern psychology and cognitive science also seek to map the mind and explain how attention, feeling, and volition operate and condition our behaviour.
In terms of the transformation of our mental experience, we should apply concentration to still the mind so we may clearly observe the function of our mind, and apply the four noble truths to transform our experience from the mundane to the transcendent.
In this course we shall seek to highlight the structure within which we can develop mindfulness of our emotions,
and insight into their function. All questions and points of discussion are welcomed.
About Dr Ian Coghlan - Jampa Ignyen
Jampa Ignyen is one of the few western Buddhist teachers to have completed the Geshe degree at Sera Je Monastic University (20 years study). We are therefore extremely fortunate to be hosting Jampa for this talk. This course is a great opportunity to explore these transformative ideas with a great scholar and a wonderfully warm and accessible lecturer, don't miss out!
Jampa Ignyen is an adjunct research fellow at the School of Philosophical, Historical and International Studies (SOPHIS), Monash University, Melbourne and currently works as a translator of Tibetan Classics, Montreal, Canada. He holds a PhD in Asian Studies and some of his specific interest include Buddhist metaphysics, phenomenology, hermeneutics and psychology. He became a monk in Dharamsala and then trained as a monk in the Tibetan Buddhist traditions for twenty years, completing his studies in 1995. His projects
include the translation of the first book of the Compendium of Buddhist Science and Philosophy and the translation of Buddhapalita's Commentary on Nagarjuna's Middle Way.
This course is suitable for individuals new to Tibetan Buddhism or those seeking to deepen their understanding of the function of minds and mental factors. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with one of Tibetan Buddhism's most cherished and its practical wisdom for leading a compassionate and meaningful life.
Dates
Wednesday 3 December 2025 - Wednesday 17 December 2025 (UTC+10:30)Location
Tibetan Buddhist Institute & Online
8 Ross Avenue, Flinders Park SA 5025
Choose date
Select a date
Key
Available
Not available
Past session
Loading...
Contact Form
THE SCIENCE OF MIND
Resend recently purchased tickets to our events to your email.
Enter email to start search
You can review the event organiser's terms and conditions here.