Comparative Maps

Welcome to the Comparative Maps portal.

This section focuses on cross-tradition comparisons and conceptual mapping between different spiritual, philosophical, and scientific systems. It aims to highlight similarities, differences, and structural relationships between models of consciousness, ethics, and practice.

Core Comparative Areas

How different traditions explain the self

This area compares how various traditions define or interpret the self, identity, and ego.

Topics include:

Ego / Self
Non-self (Buddhism)
Soul concepts (Abrahamic traditions)
Unified self vs illusion of self (non-dual systems)

Meditation techniques compared

A comparison of meditation methods across traditions and systems, including goals, techniques, and outcomes.

Topics include:

Focused attention vs open awareness
Breath-based practices
Contemplative prayer
Energy-based meditation systems
Non-dual awareness practices

Concept mapping: karma vs sin vs cause-effect ethics

This section compares ethical and causal frameworks across traditions.

Key concepts:

Karma – causal moral continuity across actions and consequences
Sin – moral violation within divine or religious law
Natural cause-effect ethics – secular or philosophical interpretations of action and consequence

States of consciousness across systems

A comparative mapping of altered and ordinary states of consciousness across different traditions and scientific frameworks.

Includes:

Flow states
Meditative absorption
Mystical experiences
Ego dissolution
Dream and lucid dream states
Psychedelic states

Purpose of Comparative Mapping

This portal serves to:

Identify shared structures across traditions
Highlight differences in interpretation and language
Bridge scientific, psychological, and spiritual models
Build a unified conceptual framework of consciousness

Method of Comparison

Comparisons are based on:

Functional similarities (what a practice or concept does)
Experiential reports (how states feel subjectively)
Symbolic interpretation (meaning systems)
Scientific models (neuroscience and psychology)

Portal:Comparative Maps