The Tao of Physics

The Tao of Physics

By: Fritjof Capra

Type: Non-fiction

Setting: n/a

Description:

In a sweeping series of chapters that read more like essays, Capra gives descriptions of the main Eastern religions, their differences and similarities and the parallels between many of these faiths and the path of modern physics. 

Comments:

Though a little over the head of the common layman, The Tao of Physics is an excellent treatise on interconnection. Modern physics, more and more, is suggesting that the reality we perceive is illusory, and that the “real world” is something far beyond our current level of understanding. We have deduced numerous equations to predict how the world works, but none of them apply at all levels of existence; Classical physics breaks down when used to predict the actions of subatomic particles and subatomic physics can not measure with certainty the actions of anything larger than subatomic size. Light appears to be a wave at some times and a stream of particles at others. Electron spin information can be transferred instantaneously — seemingly faster than the speed of light — even when an isolated electron pair is separated by millions of miles (at least in a gedankenexperiment.) The world of modern physics is rife with wonderful contradictions, so what better to compare it with than the mystical wisdom of the orient?

Obviously, the Zen Buddhists come to mind, with their famous koans — hypothetical paradoxes which a student of Zen is to meditate upon to attain enlightenment. Capra focuses much of his comparitive study on this metaphysical faith, but also brings in aspects of Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism and even jujistu and kendo. It is obvious he is well versed in both theoretical physics and eastern mysticism, and it is refreshing to see a scientist brave enough to step away from the fold and still bring scientific evidence to bear to support his position. This is no Eric von Daniken or Velikovsky talking; Capra knows his work, and is simply pointing out that western science and eastern mysticism may simply be two different paths from which to approach the same enlightened goal. 

Recommendations:

People who are not at least familiar with developments in modern physics may become bogged down in this book. They might be better off starting with Capra’s other popular book, The Turning Point, or reading Alice in Quantumland by Robert Gilmore to get a light brushup on the ideas covered. Similarly, those with no exposure to eastern mysticism may find that they do not grasp all of what Capra says. Good building blocks for these people can be found in The Spirit of Zen by Alan Watts and any number of good survey texts on eastern religions and thought systems. If you happen to be a master physicist and Zen master, you probably don’t need to read this book; you need to write one!

The Spirit of Zen

The Spirit of Zen

By: Alan Watts

Type: Non-fiction

Setting: n/a

Description:

This is a small text that introduces us to some of the riddles of the Zen mindset without giving away the answers. (The book would be stripped of its buddha nature if it contained “the answers.”) 

Comments:

Though written in the 1930s, this book still applies to Zen buddhism today. The concepts haven’t changed much and the source material is still carried down. Watts also updated the book at least twice before his death to keep it current, though he was never happy with the introductory chapter. Especially interesting is a description of life in a Zen monastery. In the description, Watts avoids “telling” us what’s happening, and simply shows us through words, a very Zen thing to do. Zen masters are known for never answering questions about Zen enlightenment directly but for exhibiting the path to enlightenment in their manner. Watts tries to do this as well, while still maintaining the interest and satisfaction of western readers. 

Recommendations:

A basic research book into Zen. That’s about all there can be, really, for a true understanding of Zen can only come through devoted study in the discipline itself. It can not be communicated in words, only through the mind-jarring koans, regular meditation and the simple procedures of living everyday life.