Portrait from the Beyond the Cushion archive for the theme Society and Worldview

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Society and worldview

Buddhist practice can reshape not only how we understand ourselves, but also how we respond to the social, political, and environmental challenges around us.

Theme overview

A wider view of our shared world


Buddhist practice can reshape not only how we understand ourselves, but also how we respond to the social, political, and environmental challenges around us.

Dennis reflects on the limits of anger-driven activism and the importance of grounding global concerns in practical acts of kindness, mindful consumption, and responsibility within one’s own community. Kim describes how mindfulness deepens her sense of interconnectedness with people, animals, and the natural world, inspiring everyday choices that reduce harm and challenge materialistic ideas of success. Mingo shares how teachings on emptiness and no-self have helped dissolve rigid political labels, making space for deeper listening, compassion, and respect across differences.

Together, their stories show how the Dharma can offer a wider view of society—one rooted less in division and reaction, and more in awareness, personal responsibility, and compassionate engagement. Practice may not solve every global crisis, but it can transform the intentions and actions we bring to the world.

In their words

4 practitioners on society and worldview


  • Portrait of Dennis MembersDennisVideo · 5 min
  • Portrait of Kim MembersKimVideo · 5 min
  • Portrait of Mingo MembersMingoVideo · 9 min
  • Portrait of Ani Pema MembersAni PemaVideo · 12 min

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