복잡성 과학으로 본 깨달음의 과정 - 싯닷타의 수행과 팔정도 -

Abstract

This paper examines Buddhist practice as a science of complexity derived from physics, the language of modern science, for present and past generations. Complexity science is the study and prediction of emergent events in a community of interacting entities. A complex system has five characteristics: 1) interactions between entities, 2) feedback loops, 3) open systems, 4) nonlinearity, and 5) complex adaptive systems. This paper introduces these five characteristics of the complex world through the process of Siddhatta’s practice. In this way the process through which enlightenment is possible is explored, and the practicality of the Eightfold Path that systematized this process is discussed. The enlightenment of the Buddha appears through a transition from individual-centered thinking (which pertains to Indian philosophy) to relation-centered thinking. In other words, all phenomena are formed according to the relationship of various conditions. That which is formed by the repeated and continuous interaction of these relationships is infinitely variable. As a system, it always exhibits an open characteristic that interacts with other systems. Systems with these characteristics are very complex, so it is not easy to predict changes. This is because changes in complex systems cause explosive emergent phenomena that are different from those already existing. The modern age is an age of diversity, and the interaction of these various components makes it increasingly difficult to predict the future. Therefore, in the present age, which is more complex than times past, insight into the overall structure of phenomena is more important than ever. Enlightenment is an insight into phenomena. Therefore, this paper presents the practicality of the Eightfold Path and shows that Buddhism can propose insights for those living in a modern society that is increasingly difficult to predict.