The Mindful Living Network welcomes back a special guest, Dan Nixon, senior researcher for The Mindfulness Initiative, to share some thoughts from his research on the philosophy of “living mindfully” as a way of life.
The role of mindfulness practice features prominently in the context of Buddhism. Meanwhile, “Western” interest in mindfulness typically adopts a scientific framing – the research in psychology, neuroscience, and so on.
In this talk, Dan invites us to reflect on “living mindfully” from a Western philosophical perspective. He will begin by setting out where mindfulness fits within Western philosophy, touching on the idea of the “being” mode and the schools of thought which – like mindfulness – encourage us to adopt an open, receptive attitude towards our lived experience.
He will then discuss:
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Whether living mindfully points towards an atomistic versus a more holistic worldview;
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Whether problems arise if we talk about mindfulness in exclusively “mental” terms (for instance “mind training”) if, as human beings, we are inherently embodied;
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Whether paying attention to experience, with an attitude of humility and care, can help us to act in ways which accord with our values. In particular, how does living mindfully help us to advance the mission of the RSA to put “ideas into action”?
The RSA Mindful Living Network’s mission is “to engage, educate and inspire Fellows to live more purposeful, creative, inspired and mindful lives by sharing practical tools grounded on the latest scientific evidence and wisdom traditions.” The RSA is an enlightenment organisation and as the cultivation of mindfulness can underpin the lifelong development of individuals and society, this talk is therefore addressed to anyone interested in possible visions for how societies might develop in response to the challenges of the 21st century.
If you have any access requirements or require any reasonable adjustments, please let the team know: networks@rsa.org.uk. Please also let us know if you have any dietary requirements or severe allergies.
Event Bookings
N.B. Network events get booked up very quickly. If the event is fully booked you will be added to a waiting list and informed if a ticket becomes available.
Location: Dr. Cross Room, RSA House, London, WC2N 6EZ
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