Stephen Batchelor

Stephen Batchelor, a writer and secular Buddhist teacher, shares insights from his works on Buddhism and meditation. He explores the transformative power of the question 'What is this?' and how embracing doubt can lead to wonder and ethical living. Batchelor discusses the distinction between productive existential doubt and paralyzing skepticism, emphasizing their relevance in our inner and outer lives. He also delves into active acceptance, the importance of contemplating death, and how navigating uncertainty can foster empathy, enhancing our ethical responses.

Stephen Batchelor, a seasoned Buddhist teacher and author, shares his 50 years of meditation wisdom in a captivating discussion. He emphasizes the vital skills of facing difficulties and consistent practice, regardless of results. Batchelor explores the significance of a non-reactive mind and the distinction between radical acceptance and resignation. He links mindfulness to personal growth, especially for athletes, and encourages embracing one's reality as a foundation for transformation.

One of the great challenges of life is to learn to be alone peaceably, at home in oneself. The pandemic forced many of us inside both physically and emotionally, even if we were not home on our own. We’ve been forced to work out the difference between loneliness and solitude. With teachers across the ages, and drawing on his life from monasticism to marriage, Buddhist writer and scholar Stephen Batchelor teaches how to approach solitude as a graceful and life-giving practice.Stephen Batchelor is a Buddhist writer and scholar who teaches seminars and leads meditation retreats worldwide. He’s a co-founder and faculty member of Bodhi [BOH-dee] College, which is focused on the study and practice of early Buddhism. His many books include Buddhism Without Beliefs, The Faith to Doubt, and most recently, The Art of Solitude.Find the transcript for this show at onbeing.org.This show originally aired in April 2020. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this podcast, host interviews Stephen Batchelor, a secular Buddhist teacher. They discuss the evolution of teachings in religious traditions, the ongoing dialogue and evolution of Buddhism, the role of mythic material in Buddhism, unnecessary suffering caused by certain Buddhist traditions, breaking down reactive responses, and the concept of secular Buddhism and the importance of being open-minded.

In this conversation, Stephen Batchelor, a writer and Tricycle contributing editor from southwest France, shares insights from his book on navigating ethical living through uncertainty. He explores how the teachings of the Buddha and Socrates can inspire creativity and empathy in challenging times. Batchelor discusses the 'cartography of care' in Buddhist ethics and connects individual actions to societal development. He promotes a balance of certainty and uncertainty in decision-making, urging listeners to reflect on their ethical choices amidst modern dilemmas.