Over 900 scientists have objected to the Dalai Lama delivering a talk on the neurological effects of meditation at a three-day conference presented by the Washington-based Mind and Life Institute.
The scientists have signed a petition that inviting a religious leader to speak at a scientific assembly sends a damaging message about the role of faith in science.
However, those in favour of the Dalai Lama’s presentation, claimed that most of those protesting were Chinese or of Chinese origin, suggesting that their opposition may have more to do with politics than science.
