Emotional Awareness

Overcoming the Obstacles to Psychological Balance and Compassion

By: Dalai Lama, Paul Ekman Ph.D. Ph.D.

Narrated by: Richard Gere, Paul Ekman Ph.D. Ph.D.

Two leading thinkers engage in a landmark conversation about human emotions and the pursuit of psychological fulfillment

At their first meeting, a remarkable bond was sparked between His Holiness the Dalai Lama, one of the world's most revered spiritual leaders, and the psychologist Paul Ekman, whose groundbreaking work helped to define the science of emotions. Now these two luminaries share their thinking about science and spirituality, the bonds between East and West, and the nature and quality of our emotional lives.

In this unparalleled series of conversations, the Dalai Lama and Ekman prod and push toward answers to the central questions of emotional experience. What are the sources of hate and compassion? Should a person extend her compassion to a torturer—and would that even be biologically possible? What does science reveal about the benefits of Buddhist meditation, and can Buddhism improve through engagement with the scientific method? As they come to grips with these issues, they invite us to join them in an unfiltered view of two great traditions and two great minds.

Accompanied by commentaries on the findings of emotion research and the teachings of Buddhism, their interplay—amusing, challenging, eye-opening, and moving—guides us on a transformative journey in the understanding of emotions.

Critic reviews

<p>“A rich feast for the mind... This is a singular meeting of two intellectual traditions--and two remarkable minds and hearts.” —Daniel Goleman<br><br>“A fresh, unique exploration of many subtle issues... on psychology and Buddhism... Full of... unexpected humor and tender surprises... They gently probe each other's system of thought with striking intellectual rigor.” —<i>Shambhala Sun</i><br><br>“Their conversations touch on questions of emotional balance, anger, and the range and limits of compassion, but a brief review can hardly do justice to the range and depth of this fine book.” —<i>Library Journal</i></p>

Nice brief narration of the book

It's very nice to follow up the concept of emotional awareness with the author himself (Paul Ekman).

The Dalai Lama's accounts are narrated by Richard Gene in awesome fashion.

The book concept is clear but I wouldn't recommend it as first read into emotional understanding.

Unfortunately this book is an abridged version of the print/kindle copy.

Valuable Subject Matter; Coarse Delivery

I found it difficult to follow the many voices reciting the conversation and felt a lot of tension as Paul's dialogue seemed abrasive at times. This would be good for someone who is coming into Buddhism through Paul but might be frustrating for someone with more than a pedestrian experience of Buddhism. Quality message regardless of the listening experience.

Deeply inspiring

It is one of the most inspiring books I’ve ever read. The knowledge and compassion of the authors is deeply touching and stimulating. Thank you for the gift of sharing with us readers so much of your wisdom.

I had my doubts

after stop listening for 6 months I was inspired to continue by "the book of joy" with Desmond tutu . I had to push past my discomfort on being a Christian. I became very attracted to the dalai Lama views .

The basis for emotional intelligence

This book is the guide for the “why and the how for emotional intelligence. “. Excellent content and effective narration.