In our Western culture, we often associate feelings such as compassion and love as coming from the heart and relegate intellect and knowledge to the brain or mind. Thus, we set up a disconnect between emotions and intellect.

However, in Buddhism, wisdom and compassion are qualities that mutually support each other. The Buddha did not suggest that we choose one over the other, but wanted us to cultivate the Eight-fold Path that leads to the perfection of both. A mind that is freed from ignorance is the same thing as a heart that is filled with compassion.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter/s and do not necessarily represent the views of the Theosophical Society in America, its members or its affiliates.