What This Document Is
These are class notes from a November 1st session of THEO 143001, Buddhism and Christianity in Dialogue at Boston College. The notes center on the complex topic of love – specifically, the challenging concept of loving one’s enemies – and explore it through the lens of psychology, moral theology, and recent scientific discoveries regarding “mirror neurons.” The discussion builds from an exploration of the “divided self” and the nature of desire.
Why This Document Matters
Students enrolled in the course will find these notes valuable for reviewing key themes and arguments presented in the November 1st lecture. Anyone interested in the intersection of religious ethics, psychology, and neuroscience may also find the material thought-provoking. The notes offer a unique perspective on a foundational ethical question, linking ancient religious teachings to contemporary scientific research. They are particularly relevant for understanding how our brains might be wired for both empathy and conflict.
Common Limitations or Challenges
These notes represent a record of a lecture and are not a comprehensive treatise on the topics discussed. They require the context of the full lecture and assigned readings for complete understanding. The notes introduce the concept of mirror neurons but do not provide an exhaustive scientific explanation. They serve as a starting point for further exploration, not a complete answer.
What This Document Provides
This document includes:
* An overview of the lecture’s central argument regarding loving enemies and the divided self.
* Introduction to the scientific concept of mirror neurons and their potential relevance to understanding human behavior and morality.
* A list of suggested readings on mirror neurons and related theories (including René Girard’s mimetic theory).
* References to the lecture’s original context within a series on division (divided self, church, world, community).
* Discussion points relating to forgiveness and the “prodigal son” parable.
This preview does *not* include: a full scientific explanation of mirror neurons, a detailed analysis of Girard’s theory, or the complete arguments presented in the lecture. It is a snapshot of the topics covered, intended to help you determine if the full lecture notes would be a valuable resource for your studies.