Attention to attention has been practiced by Buddhists of all lineages (Tibetan, Indian, Zen, Theravadin, etc.) for 2500 years. Yes, in the Europe and America, the work of James and others was original. It has been curious to me how little the Buddhist tradition is mentioned in Friends of Attention posts (and in the book, Attensity). Is it a desire to appear "secular"? At any rate, might be a good idea to offer some experiential courses based in aspects of the Buddhist tradition of becoming acquainted with the mind in all its confusion and wisdom? Or even courses in Buddhist meditation? Going to the source, etc.
Stephen -- great point. A friend of the School, Sal Randolph (here on Substack as well!), taught a previous course on Zen Buddhism as a framework for the study of attention. https://www.schoolofattention.org/past-courses/zen
And certainly, spiritual traditions have much to offer us as ways of knowing and forms of attention practice. We hope to have more teachers and writers share their knowledge at SoRA in the future!
Attention to attention has been practiced by Buddhists of all lineages (Tibetan, Indian, Zen, Theravadin, etc.) for 2500 years. Yes, in the Europe and America, the work of James and others was original. It has been curious to me how little the Buddhist tradition is mentioned in Friends of Attention posts (and in the book, Attensity). Is it a desire to appear "secular"? At any rate, might be a good idea to offer some experiential courses based in aspects of the Buddhist tradition of becoming acquainted with the mind in all its confusion and wisdom? Or even courses in Buddhist meditation? Going to the source, etc.
Stephen -- great point. A friend of the School, Sal Randolph (here on Substack as well!), taught a previous course on Zen Buddhism as a framework for the study of attention. https://www.schoolofattention.org/past-courses/zen
And certainly, spiritual traditions have much to offer us as ways of knowing and forms of attention practice. We hope to have more teachers and writers share their knowledge at SoRA in the future!