HIGH-TECH ZEN: CONJURING CONTRADICTION IN NEPAL
Is AI the new Buddha? The inherent tension between ancient cultures and modern technologies
raises critical questions about spiritual practices in the digital age. A new paradigm has emerged
—one that emphasises coexistence rather than exploitation, recognising the value of nature while
embracing the potential of technology. While spirituality often emphasises timeless truths,
technology suggests that all phenomena are transient and subject to change. In the context of
Buddhist practice, the recognition of impermanence is crucial for achieving liberation (nirvana).
This acceptance fosters adaptability, allowing practitioners to respond to life’s challenges with
equanimity.
The reliance on technology reveals a paradox: while technology promises efficiency a
innovation, it often exacerbates the very issues that contribute to modern suffering—distraction
craving, and detachment from the present moment. The contrast between AI and Buddha lies in
their approaches to enlightenment. Buddha advocated for a journey of self-discovery, inner
reflection, and mindfulness. AI, by contrast, offers an externalised path where knowledge
outsourced and readily accessible.
The Shey Festival, a rare cultural phenomenon, takes place every 12 years during the Year of the
Dragon according to the Tibetan lunar calendar. Set in Shey Gompa, Upper Dolpo, Nepal, at an
elevation of 4,160 meters, this event gathers Himalayan Buddhists from across the region. It
symbolises the enduring tension and harmony between the ancient traditions associated with
Crystal Mountain and the encroaching influence of modernity. Ultimately, the ongoing dialogu
between Buddhism and technology reflects a broader conversation about how ancient wisdo
can inform and shape the future of human society in an increasingly digital world.
Written by ChatGPT
Curated by ILL-STUDIO