The Dalai Lama has said that Buddhism and science are deeply compatible and has encouraged Western scholars to critically examine both the meditative practice and Buddhist ideas about the human mind. A number of scientists and philosophers have taken up this challenge. There have been brain scans of meditators and philosophical examinations of Buddhist doctrines. There have even been discussions of Darwin and the Buddha: Do early Buddhist descriptions of the mind, and of the human condition, make particular sense in light of evolutionary psychology?
Offered By
Buddhism and Modern Psychology
Princeton University
About this Course
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Learner Career Outcomes
55%
started a new career after completing these courses
38%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Skills you will gain
PhilosophyPsychologyMindfulnessMeditation
Learner Career Outcomes
55%
started a new career after completing these courses
38%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Approx. 19 hours to complete
Suggested: 2-5 hours/week
English
Subtitles: English, Spanish, Hungarian
Offered by
Princeton University
Princeton University is a private research university located in Princeton, New Jersey, United States. It is one of the eight universities of the Ivy League, and one of the nine Colonial Colleges founded before the American Revolution.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
2 hours to complete
The Buddhist Diagnosis
2 hours to complete
5 videos (Total 87 min), 5 readings
5 videos
Feelings and Illusions12m
The First Two Noble Truths15m
Evolutionary Psychology and the First Two Noble Truths21m
Office Hours 126m
5 readings
The Basics10m
Course Overview10m
About the Instructor10m
Contact us10m
Resources for Week 110m
2 hours to complete
The Buddhist Prescription
2 hours to complete
5 videos (Total 84 min), 1 reading
5 videos
Meditation15m
Mindfulness Meditation and the Brain16m
Can Our Feelings Be Trusted?15m
Office Hours 222m
1 reading
Resources for Week 210m
4 hours to complete
Does Your Self Exist?
4 hours to complete
4 videos (Total 91 min), 2 readings, 1 quiz
4 videos
What Did The Buddha Mean?20m
Modern Psychology and the Self22m
Office Hours 330m
2 readings
Resources for Week 310m
Guidelines for Grading Assignments10m
2 hours to complete
A New Model of the Mind
2 hours to complete
4 videos (Total 94 min), 1 reading
4 videos
What Mental Modules Aren’t8m
What Mental Modules Are30m
Office Hours 433m
1 reading
Resources for Week 410m
Reviews
4.8
TOP REVIEWS FROM BUDDHISM AND MODERN PSYCHOLOGY
by CVMar 2, 2016
Engaging content and excellent pace. While the level is introductory (I'd have liked a bit more depth), I would expect this from a lower-division/breadth course—and even more so from a MOOC like this.
by VCNov 15, 2015
I have been practicing meditation for two years already.In so far I have attended all Deepak Chopra meditation experiences which I found very helpful but not as helpful this course provided me so far.
by IPDec 22, 2018
This is a great effort which should be appreciated. Just because at a time like this, some are curious to know about the Buddhism, & with the psychological background, which adds more value for this.
by ZNMar 5, 2018
a very good course, learnt a lot about the 'Modular view of the Mind', Meditation, and Buddhist teachings. Also makes you think a lot about why you do the things do, and how you are living your life.
by SAOct 18, 2016
I have learned new knowledge about the workings of the human mind. It's eye-opening. Professor Wright's lectures and after office hour lectures were all very educational. Thank you very much! :-)
by RBJul 19, 2016
I loved this course so much. It gave me personal clarity. I also find Prof. Wright's examples amusing, as he connects Buddhism and modern psychology to the mundane things in life, like donuts. :)
by ASFeb 7, 2018
Acquired huge amounts of insight from this course and enjoyed reading the various perspectives when marking papers in the peer marked assessments. Thank you for providing such a wonderful course!
by SRJun 9, 2019
I find this course greatly stimulating and has helped me gain personally. Thank you Coursera for this unique opportunity. I took this course to just motivate some body else found it good for me.
by JWDec 15, 2015
Although I do not have time to finish my assignments, I'd like to say: Your series of lectures have changed the way I look at life. Thank you, Robert and your inspiring dogs, Frasier and Milo.
by WHNov 9, 2015
Dr. Wright did a excellent job in presenting the material in a manner that was both informative and highly engaging. His unique take on office hours is the best I've ever seen. Great course...
by EOct 23, 2016
This course was great as an introduction to Buddhism and the basics of psychology behind it. It can definately be refined, but I deeply enjoyed it. I can say it changed the way I use my mind.
by NGMar 26, 2020
Taking this course was a profound experience. It's one of the best learning experiences that I've had. Richard Wright is a brilliant man and his teaching is incredible. I would 100% reccomend
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Once you enroll for a Certificate, you’ll have access to all videos, quizzes, and programming assignments (if applicable). Peer review assignments can only be submitted and reviewed once your session has begun. If you choose to explore the course without purchasing, you may not be able to access certain assignments.
Can I earn a certificate in this course?
No. As per Princeton University policy, no certificates, credentials, or reports are awarded in connection with this course.
More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center.
