Convincing Scientists

SESSION 1: Radhadesh, Belgium - 1988 / (201)

Thompson reflects upon his personal history: studying mathematics as a Cornell University graduate student and subsequently becoming disenchanted with material reductionism. This eventually led to his exploration of the process of bhakti yoga as a means for attaining a higher level of knowledge. He admits that his turning away from a scientific worldview, dominant at that time, created an existential dilemma that left him experiencing a sense of cognitive dissonance. In retrospect, he appreciates how this situation helped him initiate a leap of faith toward more fully appreciating Eastern spirituality on its own terms, while maintaining a perspective respectful to both traditions.