2-Day International Conference and Exhibition on the “Secrets of Particles”
(25-26 April, 2024)
In this conference, we delved into the secret realm of particles, drawing intriguing parallels between quantum mechanics and the Buddhist concept of interdependence and emptiness. With this we aim to uncover the secrets of particles and the nature of reality itself.
Quantum mechanics is the foundation of modern physics and reveals a universe governed by uncertainty and probability that is far beyond the grasp of common mind. It defies classical intuition and logical conclusions drawn from our experience with the macroscopic world. Likewise, the concept of emptiness is central to Buddhist philosophy and it transcends the nature of conventional world that we experience and draw conclusions from. Remarkably, the principles of quantum mechanics and the Buddhist concept of emptiness both challenge the notion of an objective, fixed reality, that’s there to uncover.
As we navigate the frontiers of Science and Buddhism, the exploration of particles through the lens of quantum mechanics and the insights of Buddhist philosophy offers a profound journey into the nature of reality. This kind of exploration may unlock at least some aspects of the secrets of the universe and cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The 2-Day International Conference and Exhibition was organized by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives in collaboration with Pal Zurmang Monastery and Science for Monks and Nuns with the funding from Sager Family Foundation and John Templeton Foundation.
The event was graced by H.E. Zurmang Rinpoche as the chief guest, and Geshe Lhakdor, the Director of LTWA, as a special guest who attended the conference. The event was facilitated by Tibetan Buddhist scholars, Western physicists, and Indian philosophers. Over 200 individuals from numerous walks of life, including monks, nuns, educators, and students, were in attendance.
The conference commenced with an opening session featuring a welcome note and conference overview by Karma Thupten, CEO of SFMN. Following this, Geshe Lhakdor, the Director of LTWA, delivered the welcome speech, extending greetings to the distinguished guests, speakers, and numerous participants. He expressed gratitude to the host, Pal Zurmang Monastery, for being extremely professional, and showing staunch support in embodying the true spirit of organizing the conference and exhibition. Subsequently, H.E Zurmang Rinpoche delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the significance of monastics engaging with science. He showed keen interest in further implementing workshops based on science for monks and nuns in the near future.
1-DAY EXHIBITON ON THE “SECRETS OF PARTICLES”
Leadership programs are structured around cohorts of monastics who enrol in multiple sessions, engaging in tasks such as curating exhibits, publishing journals, and developing new programs at their science centers. Over a span of three to four years, cohorts typically consisting of 30 to 40 participants attend four or more leadership institutes, totalling approximately 10 weeks or 400 hours of instruction. The “Secrets of Particles” display was conceived by the third leadership cohort upon completing their training. This exhibition delves into the realm of particles, offering insights from both Buddhist teachings and quantum physics perspectives.
