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Great introduction to Buddhism, both thorough and poetical. The last chapter with beautiful translations of key sutras by Thich Nhat Hanh brought tears to my eyes.

One of the best books I've read. A significant part of it (that having to do with philosophy/epistemology) mapped well to my worldview as it was previous to reading it, but better reasoned and much better explained and sourced than my beliefs of course; the remainder was equally enjoyable and considerably mind-expanding.

I've told people close to me that they can read this book if they want to know what I think and believe. In that sense I consider David Deutsch a delegate of mine, in the liquid democracy sense: a better (smarter, more knowledgeable person) that I can trust to have opinions and beliefs compatible with mine.

Still haven't finished it; will update my review when I do. As it stands now, it's already one of the most influential and significant books I've read.

It pains me to know that John Yates was recently involved in a case of misconduct; I cannot help but fearing this somehow taints his work. But my rational mind tells me that the teacher is not the same as his teachings -- and, of course, of all these teachings only some are truly his.

If I may: the fact that someone could write this book and then also fall to ethical/moral misconduct also teaches the fact that attaining insight and calmness is not enough; one has to keep them, and use them with intention as tools to foster virtue.

There is significant overlap between Harris's talks and podcasts about meditation and consciousness and this book, so not all content was new to me.

My impression while reading it was of a four star book, but a lot of the impact was lost on me due to my previous exposure to his ideas. I think overall I'd pretty much recommend it to everyone I know (if that weren't very annoying and entitled, that is), so five stars seems justified.

A real page turner.