CSCSC Inaugural Workshop 2025

Complexity Science & Contemplative Studies Conference October 8-10, 2025 | Virtual (Zoom) | 47 researchers from 30+ institutions

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Watch the recordings: CSCSC YouTube Channel

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About the Conference

Our inaugural workshop explored the intersection of complexity science and contemplative studies, bringing together researchers from diverse backgrounds to collectively define the core questions and opportunities of this emerging field. The conference embodied both contemplative practice and scientific rigor through a balance of keynote talks, discussion sessions, mindfulness practices, and collaborative workshops.

Vision & Goals

Acknowledging the long history and challenges of attempts to formalize contemplative philosophy as a hard science, we proposed that the young field of complexity science provides new opportunities for this age-old quest. Our three-fold intention:

1. Foster community among experts working on either side of this intersection
2. Collectively define the core questions and opportunities of this integration
3. Embody the ideals of contemplation and scientific rigor we are bridging

Learn more about our vision

Keynote Speakers

🧬 Michael Levin (Tufts University)

"Minds in the Platonic Space"

Exploring the Platonic space and a modern version of minds that are not "in" the physical space, including controversial ideas around the claim that there are no "dumb machines" or "inanimate matter." Working to understand how to recognize, build, and ethically relate to embodied minds in the physical world.

✨ Martin Nowak (Harvard University)

"The Beyond Within"