Randima Fernando – Humane Technology

Randima Fernando – Humane Technology

Author: Mind & Life Institute November 4, 2022 Duration: 1:17:37
In this episode, Wendy speaks with Randima (Randy) Fernando, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology. Over several decades, Randy has worked to integrate technology, mindfulness, and social impact, trying to find ethical solutions to some of our most challenging issues. This conversation covers many topics, including: how the strands of Buddhism and technology have woven together throughout his life; the challenges we face with tech today; parallels between mindfulness and humane technology; understanding the "race to the bottom"; breaking the myth that technology is neutral; looking at technology through the Buddhist lens of dependent co-arising; problematic incentives in the tech space (e.g., advertising as a business model); the attention economy; how technology trains our attention, emotions, and even our values; technology's impact on the way we view our "self"; customized realities, echo chambers, and polarization; how to avoid tech traps; the core principles of humane technology; building values/ethics into AI; understanding dukkha; the pros and cons of using technology to teach mindfulness; and the latest resources from the Center for Humane Technology. Full show notes and resources

At the heart of Mind & Life is a simple, profound question: what is a mind, really? This isn't just a philosophical puzzle but a practical exploration of the mental habits that define our days. The conversations hosted by the Mind & Life Institute gently dismantle the walls between disciplines, weaving together insights from neuroscience and psychology with the lived wisdom of contemplative traditions. You’ll hear dialogues that feel less like interviews and more like shared discoveries, where a philosopher and a meditation teacher might find common ground on how attention works, or where a scientist discusses the social impact of compassion training. Each episode is an invitation to look inward with curiosity, examining how practices like meditation aren't about escape but about engaging with our inner world more skillfully. This podcast operates from the conviction that understanding our own minds is foundational to addressing broader cultural and societal challenges. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the mechanics of their own thoughts and emotions and sought a deeper, evidence-informed conversation about transformation. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of rigorous inquiry and personal relevance, where ancient questions meet modern investigation.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 90

Mind & Life
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