As human beings, we are subject not only to perceptual, but to cognitive illusions. A central insight of Buddhist thought is that these illusions lie at the root of suffering, and that suffering can only be eliminated if these illusions are extirpated. Among the most pervasive and pernicious of these illusions is the sense that we are selves. But how do we come to see ourselves as selfless without falling into a nihilistic view that we don't exist at all, that we have no agency, or no responsibility? The answer is to come to see ourselves as persons. In these four evenings we will explore what it is to be a person, but to lack a self, and the understanding of human life and morality that this enables.

This is a freely offered, pay what you can program. Donations will be shared between Jay L. Garfield and BCBS.