This volume brings together international scholars from neuroscience, mathematics, physics, neurophenomenology, psychology, cognitive sciences, philosophy, and the study of Indian and Buddhist contemplative traditions.

The book explores fundamental questions such as: Is subjective experience crucial to understanding consciousness and in what ways? What is the significance of first-person perspectives, and how should they be integrated into scientific practices and methods? How do modern physics and neuroscience contribute to the quest for understanding consciousness? What are the ethical and political implications of the science of consciousness? Which practices assist the practitioner entering into altered states of consciousness, and what are the related benefits? What can the study of experience contribute to the study of consciousness? Can personal attitudes and reflections have a positive effect on the science of consciousness?

Almost all the contributions result from shared experiences, explored by participants in at least one of two consecutive workshops, where scientific discourse was integrated with experiential sessions.