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There are endless pitfalls when comparing notions in Buddhism with ideas in Cognitive Therapy. However, it could be argued that comparisons between the two can lead to better understanding of and solutions to some modern problems. The concepts of Papanca in Buddhism and 'automatic thoughts' in Cognitive Therapy have similarities, including the tenet that egocentric thoughts interfere with our perception and invariably lead to a departure from reality. Central to both is the idea that thinking from the 'me', 'I' and 'mine' perspective does not allow for a valid assessment of events and people. The consequence is negative inner speech that results in inappropriate emotional reactions to one's experience of the world. This inaccurate cognition, underpinned by egocentricity, leads us to a state 'Helplessness' in which we feel incapable and overwhelmed. Two key issues in modern life: our constant use and abuse of the concept of 'Self"; our feeling of discontent which has lead to depression being more prevalent today.
About the author
Maya Shobrook is organisational psychologist with special interest in perception. She currently lives in Israel with her family. Prior to moving to Israel she lived in London UK and attended both London School of Economic(LSE) and SOAS.The thesis was the result of a short visit to Sri Lanka that lasted 6 years, a great memorable experience.
