In this course, we will explore the convergence of two transformative worldviews: Buddhism and Marxism. While both perspectives provide conceptual and practical resources to alleviate suffering and promote human flourishing, they offer distinct paths to these shared goals. Over the span of four weeks, we will delve into the philosophical foundations of both Buddhist and Marxist perspectives on suffering, justice, and human well-being. We will also explore practical strategies for integrating Buddhist mindfulness practices into political activism. By engaging deeply with both traditions, we will examine their relevance in addressing contemporary social and political challenges, gaining valuable insights into how they can inform and strengthen our efforts toward a more just and compassionate world.

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Dates & Times:

Feburary 3, 10, 17, 24
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Online Webinar

Meet the Instructors:

Adriana DiFazio (she/they) is a mixed-Asian American Buddhist scholar, meditation teacher, facilitator, and parent. She writes and teaches about radically engaged Buddhism through her newsletter, Radical Change. Adriana holds a BA from Barnard College and a Masters of Divinity in Buddhism and Interreligious Engagement from Union Theological Seminary. Her dharma practice is rooted in the Shambhala Buddhist tradition, the lineage of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.

Mike Slott’s Mindful Solidarity: A Secular Buddhist Democratic Socialist Dialogue (Tuwhiri, 2024) lays out the arguments in favor of Secular Buddhism, why social engagement is necessarily a part of it, and how a Marxist analysis can complement the Buddhist analysis of suffering’s causes and amelioration. Mike is a long-time political and labor movement activist who manages the Secular Buddhist Network and edits its monthly newsletter. He is a proponent of non-dogmatic and democratic forms of socialism. He believes Buddhism and radical political activism can benefit from dialogue with each other. Buddhists need to realize that not all causes of suffering are due to individual greed, hatred, and delusion; some result from structural causes rooted in class-based oppression and exploitation. On the other hand, radical political groups often splinter or flounder because members fail to recognize and minimize their egoistic involvement, or to employ mindfulness and compassion in managing intragroup conflict.