The left is missing out on AI - by Dan Kagan-Kans

This article argues that the left is missing out on engaging with AI, ceding the debate to the right. It highlights how the left has largely refused to seriously engage with AI, instead viewing it as something to hate, mock, and ignore. The article explores the reasons behind this stance, including the influence of academia and the skepticism towards the tech industry. It also discusses the potential consequences of this approach, such as missing out on the political and economic opportunities AI presents. The article concludes by suggesting that it is not too late for the left to engage with AI and shape its future.

Buddhist values are democratic values.

A Philosophical Assessment of Secular Buddhism - Barre Center for Buddhist Studies

This article discusses the philosophical assessment of secular Buddhism, exploring the idea that secular Buddhism should not be identified with anti-religion and that it can contribute to re-envisioning and reformulating spiritual sensibilities in contemporary thought, practice, and experience.

The Art of Solitude: Buddhist Scholar and Teacher Stephen Batchelor on Contemplative Practice and Creativity – The Marginalian

This blog post explores the concept of solitude as a contemplative practice and its role in creativity and self-discovery, drawing insights from Buddhist scholar Stephen Batchelor.

Insights: Exploring Secular Dharma #77 February 2026 - Secular Buddhist Network

This month's newsletter from the Secular Buddhist Network features an interview between Ezra Klein and Stephen Batchelor on reframing the Four Noble Truths as "tasks" rather than dogmas. There's news on an upcoming book from the Batchelors and Bernat Font, plus details on their c

Doubt and Free Inquiry

Faced with conflicting teachers, the Buddha tells the Kalamas not to rely on tradition, scripture, or even the authority of a teacher. Instead, use experiential inquiry: test every teaching in the laboratory of your own life. If a practice leads to greed, hatred, or delusion—a

Causes and Conditions: Buddhism & Dependent Origination

Pratītyasamutpāda or dependent origination is a core doctrine shared by all Buddhist traditions, religious or secular. A pithy way of expressing this concept would be to say that "nothing exists in a vacuum". That is to say that dharmas, phenomena, and principles are influenced

A Conversation with Stephen Batchelor

Stephen Batchelor, a contemporary Buddhist teacher known for his secular approach, discusses Buddhism's evolution and its relevance in the modern world. He emphasizes Buddhism as a culture of awakening rather than a religious system, highlighting its adaptability and continuous reinvention.

Calm - Ease | Guided Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh

I’m sharing this video because I’ve been reflecting on how much joy the teachings of Thay Nhat Hanh bring to my life. His focus on "aimlessness" and the miracle of the present moment offers a profound sense of ease. His teachings have helped transformed my practice from a "task"

Video: Is Secular Buddhism an Oxymoron?

This video from Doug Smith examines the conceptual tension often associated with the term "Secular Buddhism." He addresses the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and naturalistic inquiry without relying on the traditional religious/anti-religious dichotomy. Core Arguments: Def