Tom Pepper

Tom Pepper, author of 'The Faithful Buddhist' and 'Indispensable Goods', critiques Western Buddhism’s ties to capitalist structures and romantic ideology. He argues that emotional pursuits in Buddhism can mask disconnection from societal issues. Expounding on how contemporary interpretations often dilute core teachings, Pepper explores the commercialization of Buddhist practices. He emphasizes the need for political engagement in Buddhism to genuinely address suffering, challenging listeners to rethink emotional responses in the context of societal change.