The aim of the project is to present a continuing investigation into the path delineated initially by the Buddha, and subsequently expanded upon by his enlightened followers, indicating the means by which we may transcend selfhood and achieve what is termed "Enlightenment".

The purpose of this exploration is to elucidate some of the concepts and methods employed that communicate and implement aspects of this developmental "path", and seek to determine whether they bear a valid relationship to the world of our experience (or in Buddhist terminology 'conditioned existence') and, moreover, whether such techniques are likely to lead to the described outcome. This exploration will not be solely dependent upon traditional Buddhist expositions but will include, we hope, extensive reference to Western insights derived from a range of disciplines, and encompassed within those two broad categories, the humanities and the sciences

From this research it is hoped that some contribution may be made towards presenting the above principles in such a fashion as to render them both rational and meaningful to Western readers, and thus encourage these to take up the invitation of the Buddha to "Come and see".

Since this project is intended to be progressive it will necessarily be the case that some arguments will be inaccurate and/or undeveloped. We therefore welcome - and encourage - constructive criticism and feedback that will assist in the refinement and accuracy of the presentation (it would be appreciated therefore if all material communicated to us has a clear indication of provenance (citations etc), and up-to-date links provided for those sources derived from the internet).

Our focus is primarily upon those resources which may be accessed directly from the web, and which are freely available to anyone with this facility. Our links, therefore, tend to be directed towards those sites (or download links) where such material is presented, and which do not incur any charges via subscriptions etc. Nevertheless these works may be subject to a number of limitations with regard to copyright, dissemination etc, and the user should be aware of this. Additionally some sites may suggest a donation, which is, of course, at the discretion of the viewer.


Note: We make every effort to ensure that links carried on the site are up-to-date. However, it is inevitable (given the architecture of the web, and the universal truth of "impermanence") that some links will become broken. We would appreciate if you would draw this to our attention when it occurs and we will attempt to remedy the matter (click here to send details). Additionally we have found that placing the broken link heading into a search engine will frequently direct the researcher to the new link location. Additionally we will be creating our own archive of articles, downloads etc as a further means of resolving this problem.