Ancient Wisdom, Emerging Tech: Buddhist Studies’ Contemplative Education in the Age of AI
Contemporary Buddhism October 24, 2025 DOI: 10.1080/14639947.2025.2562763 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Buddhism |
| Keywords | Education |
| Key points | Argues that contemplative education within Buddhist Studies should develop "image literacy" at the academic level, because imagery is central to perception and AI now dominates information production and distribution. Contends that scholarship should pursue personal and collective transformation through wisdom and ethics, and that AI technologies should be guided by principles fostering care, insight, and embodied understanding. |
Abstract
ABSTRACT This paper explores the evolving role of contemplative education within Buddhist Studies in the context of the contemporary “age of AI.” It advocates for the cultivation of image literacy at the academic level, arguing that as AI becomes the predominant compiler, producer, and distributor of information, it is imperative to reconsider the nature of cognition and its broader implications for individuals and societies. Drawing on the insights of contemporary cultural theorists and engaged learning educators, alongside close readings of classical Buddhist texts—particularly those aligned with Yogācāra thought such as the Lankāvatārasūtra (3rd century) and the Dharmadharmatāvibhāga (4th century)—this study underscores the centrality of imagery in the perceptual process. It contends that scholarship should transcend the mere accumulation and dissemination of information, aiming instead toward personal and collective transformation through the cultivation of wisdom and ethical qualities. Ultimately, the paper argues that the development and deployment of AI technologies should be guided by principles that foster ecosystems of care, insight, and embodied understanding.