Buddhist Perspectives on the Natural World in an Age of Global Climate Change

We are facing unprecedented ecological challenges, which we must address from multiple scientific and humanistic perspectives. Long considered the most “environmentally friendly” religion, Buddhist teachings on dependent origination, universal compassion, and their related contemplative practices have profoundly influenced contemporary ecological thinking. The story, though, is complicated. This Institute will provide humanities faculty with a deeper understanding of how Buddhists, past and present, have understood and interacted with their natural environments and will introduce Buddhist conceptual and practical tools, like ecologically-oriented contemplative practices, to respond to the climate crisis. The program includes visits to a Buddhist organic farm and local temples.