- Level 100
Science, Experience, and Interdependence
Exploring the Deep Connections Between Mind, Reality, and Human Flourishing
- Thursday | 10:00-11:30 AM Pacific Time | 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time
- Jan 14th to Feb 25th 2027
Live, Interactive Sessions
Engaging 90 minutes classes with experienced Instructors
Supportive Community
Connect, share, and learn in a private online community
Session Recordings
Watch anytime with access to recordings for six months
Risk Free Enrollment
Offered by Donation
Course Description
Modern science and Buddhist philosophy converge on a provocative claim: our ordinary perception of reality is fundamentally shaped by illusion.
In this seven-week course, Dr. Carl Pilcher explores this intersection, drawing upon insights from physics, biology, science of the mind, and contemplative traditions. Participants will investigate how everything arises through relationship and interconnection.
Rather than presenting science and spirituality as opposing viewpoints, this course invites us to discover how both can contribute to a richer understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
Through inquiry, discussion, and reflection, we will explore how interdependence shapes our lives, our communities, and our understanding of reality itself.
What you will gain
- Discover how modern science is reshaping our understanding of reality
- Explore the relationship between perception and experience.
- Understand interdependence as both a scientific principle and a lived reality
- Gain practical insights for navigating an increasingly interconnected world
- Engage in meaningful dialogue with a community of fellow learners
Course Format
Each session includes:
- Engaging presentations and guided inquiry
- Interactive discussion and dialogue
- Practical reflections connecting theory to everyday life
- Opportunities to explore scientific and contemplative perspectives together
No prior scientific or contemplative background is required. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are the only prerequisites.
Instructor
Dr. Carl Pilcher
Dr. Carl Pilcher is retired from a career in space science. He holds a B.S. and Ph.D. in Chemistry, the latter from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an M.P.A. in International Relations from Princeton University. He was on the astronomy faculty of the University of Hawaii for a dozen years before becoming a NASA administrator for almost 3 decades. His professional arc took him from planetary science to serving as Director of the NASA Astrobiology Institute. He began studying ancient teachings in 2015 with a Hindu teacher and joined the Dharma College community as a student in late 2021. Central to his interests are integrating ancient wisdom, particularly of non-dualism, with a modern scientific world view.
- Level 200
Science, Experience, and Interdependence
- Jan 14th to Feb 25th 2027
- Thursday | 10:00-11:30 AM Pacific Time | 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time
- Recordings available for six months after class
- After the class has begun, you will receive an email asking for a donation. Please offer whatever you feel. Dharma College is a 501(c)(3) and exists on your generosity. Thank you in advance
