Zen Master Bernie Glassman had a remarkable journey from aeronautic engineer to Zen teacher and social entrepreneur. Here, the focus turns to Glassman Roshi’s understanding of what peacemaking means, and how Buddhist practice can be embodied in everyday life without reliance on traditional monastic forms.
Bernie Glassman (1939–2018) was an American engineer, Zen teacher and social entrepreneur. His work—such as the Greyston Bakery—combined personal insight with societal transformation. Glassman stressed the realisation of the bodhisattva ideal, offering assistance with social challenges such as poverty and substance abuse.
This exploration examines the interplay between perception, duality, and oneness through insights from ancient traditions and modern interpretations. It highlights how economic systems disrupt unity, fostering dissatisfaction. Through spiritual practices, individuals can gradually awaken to interconnectedness, overcoming misaligned perceptions shaped by social constructs, ultimately revealing profound truths of existence.
Losing Myself and My Suitcase This post explores how the stories our minds create – stories of guilt, inadequacy, or fear – can become far heavier burdens than the events that inspire them. A lost suitcase, a moment of confusion in a foreign railway station, or a lapse in attentiveness can transform into a mental…
In the face of climate change, technological advancements, and social inequities, simple spiritual practices offer guidance. Eastern philosophies highlight interconnectedness, encouraging peace within and without. Embracing sorrow leads to meaningful action, fostering awareness and compassion. A peacemaker listens, acts responsibly, and strives for justice, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious future.
The Eastern Band of Cherokee experienced remarkable transformations after opening a profitable casino, providing community members with a form of unconditional basic income. This financial security led to significant improvements in children’s mental health, behavior, and school performance, reinforcing the idea that poverty stems from lack of resources, not personal failings.
Unemployment significantly affects individuals and society, causing financial instability, mental health issues, and intergenerational trauma. Society’s stigma surrounding unemployment exacerbates feelings of worthlessness. Addressing economic inequality and poverty is essential for improving public health and reducing childhood trauma, leading to better outcomes for future generations and a healthier society overall.
The discussion on Universal Basic Income (UBI) highlights its potential as financial security amid automation. However, Kai-Fu Lee advocates for a Social Investment Stipend focused on caregiving, community service, and education. As AI evolves, embracing non-traditional work and ensuring equitable wealth distribution becomes vital for societal resilience and compassion.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) aims to alleviate poverty and adapt to economic shifts due to AI-driven unemployment. Advocates include influential figures like Musk and Bregman, who highlight its potential societal benefits. However, opposition persists regarding the nature of work, necessitating commitment from wealthy individuals for successful implementation and future evolution in employment definitions.
The concentration of wealth among the richest individuals is primarily rooted in traditional industries, rather than AI. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated wealth growth for the ultra-rich, raising concerns about income inequality and the nature of work. Solutions like universal basic income and wealth redistribution are proposed to address these challenges.
