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What is "true" in a scientific sense? One reasonable definition is a model that allows you to make predictions or solve problems. In this sense, Wright makes a compelling case that many of the core ideas of Buddhism, from the idea that we construct a faulty perspective of reality to some of the loop of consistently expecting more satisfaction from goals than they actually provide, is consistent with current understandings of psychology. He also provides a reasonable theoretical basis for some of the ways meditative practices are able to enhance "self" control, even while portraying the concept of an absence of self. He does not claim the supernatural elements of Buddhism are true, and doesn't provide a huge amount of coverage of them.
Some of the language and ideas are foreign to me without a background in Buddhism, to the extent that some of the ideas at the end of the book are really difficult to process. I'm not sure if further exploration of Buddhist ideas will get me there or not. However, at minimum, he has convinced me to spend more time practicing meditation, and to keep an open mind and read further when I get an opportunity.
What is "true" in a scientific sense? One reasonable definition is a model that allows you to make predictions or solve problems. In this sense, Wright makes a compelling case that many of the core ideas of Buddhism, from the idea that we construct a faulty perspective of reality to some of the loop of consistently expecting more satisfaction from goals than they actually provide, is consistent with current understandings of psychology. He also provides a reasonable theoretical basis for some of the ways meditative practices are able to enhance "self" control, even while portraying the concept of an absence of self. He does not claim the supernatural elements of Buddhism are true, and doesn't provide a huge amount of coverage of them.
Some of the language and ideas are foreign to me without a background in Buddhism, to the extent that some of the ideas at the end of the book are really difficult to process. I'm not sure if further exploration of Buddhist ideas will get me there or not. However, at minimum, he has convinced me to spend more time practicing meditation, and to keep an open mind and read further when I get an opportunity.