Absolutes Quote by Dalai Lama
“On the philosophical level, both Buddhism and modern science share a deep suspicion of any notion of absolutes, whether conceptualize as a transcendent being, as an eternal, unchanging principle such as soul, or as a fundamental substratum of reality. ... In the Buddhist investigation of reality, at least in principle, empirical evidence should triumph over scriptural authority, no matter how deeply venerated a scripture may be.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Lecture on Buddhism and Science, 2005
Both Buddhism and modern science question fixed, unchanging truths, favoring empirical evidence over dogma.
In simple terms: Both reject absolute truths, valuing evidence.
Key Takeaway
Question evidence over tradition.
Themes
philosophy
science
religion
skepticism
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal belief
- scientific research
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
empiricism
relativism
nondualism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance empirical inquiry with spiritual traditions?
- When might absolute beliefs be useful?
A Different Perspective
Absolute claims can provide comfort and social cohesion.
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