Buddhist Meditation and Psychology

This set of flashcards covers key concepts in Buddhist meditation and psychology based on the lecture notes.

What is the purpose of loving-kindness (metta) meditation?

To cultivate feelings of goodwill, compassion, and warmth towards oneself and others.

What does mindfulness represent in Buddhism?

Mindfulness is both 'the seed' as a means to build concentration and 'the fruit' as the awareness and benefits resulting from that practice.

What does the term 'dukkha' signify in Buddhism?

Dukkha refers to suffering, dissatisfaction, and existential unease, stemming from craving and the desire for permanence.

How do the five skandhas relate to the Buddhist understanding of self?

The skandhas are the five aggregates (form, feelings, perceptions, mental formations, and consciousness) that make up a person’s mental and physical existence, illustrating the absence of a permanent self.

What are the three root afflictions discussed in Buddhism?

Ignorance, craving/lust, and hatred/aversion; they are the fundamental causes of suffering.

How is karma defined from a Buddhist perspective?

Karma is the natural process resulting from volitional actions, shaping our experiences through a chain of cause and effect.

What does shunyata mean in Buddhism?

Shunyata, or emptiness, signifies that all phenomena lack independent, inherent existence.

What is the relationship between Prajnaparamita and Shunyata?

Prajnaparamita is the perfection of wisdom that realizes shunyata, emphasizing that all phenomena lack inherent existence.

What are skillful means (upaya) in Buddhism?

Adaptable and compassionate methods used to guide beings toward awakening, utilizing various techniques suited to individual understanding.

How do Kahneman's System 1 and System 2 relate to Buddhist psychology?

System 1 is fast and instinctual, while System 2 is effortful and reflective. They interact to inform our understanding and responses according to Buddhist teachings.

What cognitive processes are involved in predictive coding and how do they connect to Buddhist perspectives?

Predictive coding involves the brain modeling the world to anticipate future events, which can cause suffering if it leads to excessive dwelling on past or potential outcomes.

How does excessive counterfactual thinking affect one's mental state in Buddhism?

While it can lead to learning and compassion, it can also reinforce attachment and suffering, emphasizing the need for present-moment awareness.