Transcending Opposites

By Victor M Fontane

From a modern scientific perspective, increasing research emphasizes the feedback loops between the brain and the limbs, rather than simple unidirectional control. This interactivity reveals our behavior as the outcome of a multi-layered complex system, encompassing environment, perception, emotions, consciousness, and more.

From a Buddhist perspective, a non-dual (or beyond-dual) view has always been emphasized. The Buddha's teachings speak of transcending opposites, accepting impermanence (annica), and recognizing the interdependence (pratītyasamutpāda) and fluidity of all phenomena.  Within these teachings, consciousness (citta/viññāṇa) is seen not merely as an observer, but also as part of the experience.  This transcendence of dualistic thinking helps diminish clinging to self and other (anattā), leading to a more peaceful state.

As science begins to unveil the complex nature of human cognition and behavior, it prompts us to reconsider dualistic views within biological systems.  This resonates deeply with Buddhist teachings, both of which explore the motivations and nature of human action (karma).

Integrating these two ways of thinking can foster a more holistic understanding, as it moves beyond fixating on simple dichotomies and explores the underlying interconnectedness (paṭiccasamuppāda).  This allows for a deeper appreciation of the dynamic interplay of factors contributing to our experience, moving beyond a simplistic separation of mind and body (nāmarūpa). 

This interconnectedness can be further understood through the lens of dependent origination, emphasizing the conditional arising of all phenomena.