This book captures the content and feeling tone of the 2005 public Mind and Life dialogue with the Dalai Lama in Constitution Hall, Washington DC on the subject of the science and clinical applications of meditation. Edited by the program chairs, Jon Kabat-Zinn and Richard Davidson, the book also includes an Introduction and an Epilogue written by them. The former sets the stage for the presentations and discussion, and the latter summarizes developments in the field since the meeting took place. The presenters and discussants include a wide range of scientists and contemplatives. This landmark meeting was co-sponsored by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Georgetown University Medical Center.