Buddhist Perspectives on the Natural World

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 contemplative practices have profoundly influenced contemporary ecological thinking. The story, though, is more complicated. Buddhist traditions have viewed the natural world both negatively, in contrast to immaterial spiritual realities, and positively, as the very ground and locus of spiritual practice.

This Institute will provide humanities faculty, particularly those whose courses intersect with the field of environmental humanities, with a deeper understanding of how Buddhists, past and present, have understood and interacted with their natural environments and the conceptual and practical tools that Buddhists have devised to respond constructively to the climate crisis. In addition to field trips to a Buddhist organic farm and temples in the area, participants will be introduced to secular ecologically-oriented contemplative practices by highly experienced meditation teachers.