My confidence in venturing into science lies in my basic belief that as in science so in Buddhism, understanding the nature of reality is pursued by means of critical investigation: if scientific analysis were conclusively to demonstrate certain claims in Buddhism to be false, then we must accept the findings of science and abandon those claims.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Scientific investigation aligns with Buddhist inquiry; if science contradicts Buddhist claims, those claims should be abandoned.
- In plain terms
- Science and Buddhism both seek reality; if they disagree, follow the science.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept scientific findings even if they challenge religious beliefs.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you weigh science and faith?
- When have you changed a belief based on evidence?
Another view
Some may prioritize faith over empirical evidence.
More from Tenzin Gyatso
Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.
Permalink to quote #23 If science proves some belief of Buddhism wrong, then Buddhism will have to change. In my view, science and Buddhism share a search for the truth and for under…
Permalink to quote #25 Compassion and tolerance are not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength.
Permalink to quote #22
Related quotes
If science proves some belief of Buddhism wrong, then Buddhism will have to change. In my view, science and Buddhism share a search for the truth and for under…
Tenzin GyatsoTenzin Gyatso quote #25 Buddhism does not accept a theory of God, or a creator. According to Buddhism, one's own actions are the creator, ultimately. Some people say that, from a cert…
Tenzin GyatsoTenzin Gyatso quote #69 'Faith' is a fine invention When Gentlemen can see - But Microscopes are prudent In an Emergency.
Emily DickinsonEmily Dickinson quote #3