Robert Wright's Nonzero Mindfulness and the Israel-Palestine Conflict (Robert Wright & Vincent Fakhoury Horn)
Oct 23, 2025
Vincent Fakhoury Horn, a Palestinian-American Dharma teacher and host at Buddhist Geeks, brings a unique perspective to the conversation about mindfulness and geopolitics. He shares his personal connection to Palestine and insights on the American Buddhist response to the conflict. The discussion delves into the moral responsibilities tied to mindfulness amidst global violence, the ethical implications of U.S. policies, and the complexities of trauma and identity for both Palestinians and Jews. This engaging dialogue emphasizes the need for contemplative practices to inspire social action.
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Checkpoint Humiliation Story
- Robert Wright recounts a Palestinian waiter describing daily humiliation at checkpoints and young soldiers intimidating civilians.
- The story illustrated unequal power dynamics and shaped Wright's lasting perspective on the conflict.
History Precedes Outbreaks
- Wright argues history doesn't start with October 7 and stresses causal context for violence on both sides.
- Understanding causality doesn't excuse atrocities but clarifies why events unfolded.
Hatred Breeds Future Violence
- Wright invokes Buddhist ethics: hatred breeds more hatred and gives practical reasons to avoid vengeful responses.
- He warns Israel's brutal response risks creating a new generation motivated to retaliate.
