Elevating Consciousness Pema Dragpa - Integral, Buddhism and the Future of Wisdom Traditions
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Nov 14, 2025 In this discussion, Pema Dragpa, an ordained Tibetan Buddhist Lama and author, dives into the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern life. He shares insights on balancing spirituality with financial responsibilities and critiques approaches like Ken Wilber's integral theory. Dragpa emphasizes Vajrayana Buddhism as a method for navigating turbulent times and discusses the importance of integrating Western psychology with Tibetan practices. He advocates for a community-focused approach to spiritual engagement in politics while preserving unique traditions.
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From NYU To Padmasambhava Center
- Pema Dragpa described his unexpected path from NYU philosophy student to Vajrayana teacher, including menial jobs in Puerto Rico and a vision prompting him to join Padmasambhava Buddhist Center.
- He became a monk, later returned vows, and has served as a volunteer teacher while living a simple married life.
Use Simplicity To Support Practice
- Live simply and work within financial limits to focus on Dharma and service rather than luxury and distraction.
- Reduce recurring expenses and choose a livelihood that supports practice and relationship stability.
Integral As A Non‑Warring Worldview
- Integral denotes a non-warring, meta-awareness that integrates interior and exterior, subjective and objective perspectives.
- Ken Wilber popularized structural maps, but integral awareness is a naturally emerging mode of being.
