The Dalai Lama returned this week on his third visit to Stanford University, drawn to the scientific research conducted at its Center for Compassion and Altruism Research, which was partially funded by the spiritual leader through sales of his books.
The Center is at the forefront of a growing movement to bring the tools of psychology and neuroscience to the study of empathy, compassion and altruism.
The 75-year-old Dalai Lama spoke to about 6,300 people on “The Centrality of Compassion in Human Life and Society.” He repeatedly stressed a secular approach to compassion that reaches beyond individual creeds and beliefs. He spoke of the need for mutual respect and friendship, the care and education of children, and ongoing dialogue for conflict resolution.
Evident throughout was his fascination with science, the neurology of the mind and brain, the interest in the intricate distinctions between mind and body that led him to be a founding benefactor for the Center.
(WATCH the video below, and read the story from Stanford News)