Cobb, John B., Jr. "Science and the Metaphysics of Buddhism." In Humanity and Religions in an Age of Science: Festschrift in Commemoration of the Retirement of Professor Ryusei Takeda. (Kyoto, Japan: Hozokan, 2010), 27-40. 

Abstract

Prof. Ryusei Takeda has long been convinced that Buddhism in general, and Pure Land Buddhism in particular, have much to contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the world. He has also judges that they have done too little to actualize this contribution. He has done much to begin this process. I share his view of the potential importance of this process both for Buddhism and for the world.The prestige of science is so great that many suppose that the requirement on the religious community is to adjust its teaching to the dominant views of scientists. There are indeed many findings of the various sciences to which all responsible thinkers must adjust. But in this essay I am focusing on metaphysics. Often both scientist and Buddhists disclaim interest in this topic. Yet both have views of what is most real and what is illusory. I am calling these views metaphysics. My thesis is that Buddhist metaphysics could improve the work of science. Section I surveys the history of Western science to highlight the problems to which its associated metaphysics gives rise. Section II notes how a Buddhist vision would fit the known facts better and would point science in the right direction.