Concurrent Session 1 – The Social Dimension of Suffering – An Enactive Perspective

We assume that humans are social beings that necessarily and existentially strive for connection and recognition from others. When social interactions fail to contribute to this basic desire, they constitute one of the greatest sources of human suffering. Being with others requires a negotiation between needing to ensure one’s own existence while also recognizing others’ …

Master Lecture – Contemplative Inquiry and Science

What Constitutes Compelling Evidence, And For Whom? (B. Alan Wallace) “Exceptional claims require exceptional evidence” is often presented as the heart of the scientific method and as a model for critical thinking, rational thought, and skepticism everywhere. Accordingly, materialists view any evidence that is incompatible with their beliefs as highly questionable at best, for such …

Pre-Conference Closing Keynote

Epiphanies, Tensions, and Horizons: Pathways Forward In this session, we will reflect on the lessons from the day’s workshops, examine their implications for the fields of contemplative and transformative education, and outline potential pathways forward. We will consider the following questions: How did these conversations impact how we see ourselves and our work? What new …

Pre-Conference Workshop – Re-imagining the Vision of Education: Preparing Contemplative and Transformative Teachers and Administrators

The fostering of academic, social and emotional student development and the cultivation of outer- and inner-life skills for all students requires a newly designed vision of education. This session will examine the re-envisioning of education through engaging participants in reflection and lively discussion about critical questions regarding realizing and embodying education by connecting the contemplative …