Scientists, scholars discuss mind, ethics, AI in Dharamsala

Scientists, scholars, contemplative practitioners and policy experts from around the world gathered in McLeodganj for the 39th edition of the Mind and Life Dialogue held at the Dalai Lama Library and Archive near the Dalai Lama’s residence.

The three-day event, organised by the Mind and Life Institute, Mind and Life Europe and the Dalai Lama Trust, explored the theme “Minds, Artificial Intelligence and Ethics.”

The dialogue, inspired by the Dalai Lama’s long-standing vision to bridge Eastern wisdom with Western science, brought together experts from universities and institutions such as Google DeepMind, Princeton University, Kyoto University and the University of Washington.

Thupten Jinpa, chairman of the Mind and Life Board, noted that the dialogue coincides with the Dalai Lama’s 90th year, designated the “Year of Compassion.” He said that the Dalai Lama's engagement with scientists aims to expand the scope of scientific inquiry beyond materialism and to explore how science can serve humanity through compassion-driven research.

The discussions focused on five key themes — the nature of mind, relationships and meaning, collective narratives and futures, ethics and diversity and education. The participants examined both the potential and risks of artificial intelligence, including its impact on mental development, employment, climate action and global equity.

The Speakers cautioned against anthropomorphising AI and overestimating its capabilities, stressing that compassion, responsibility and transparency must guide technological progress. “AI cannot love, but it can help us love better,” said Geshe Lodoe Sangpo, adding that technology should promote connection rather than conflict.

In his address, the Dalai Lama said dialogues like these were more beneficial than ritual practices. He urged scientists to draw from Buddhist traditions of logic and critical thinking, noting that understanding the mind is key to understanding life itself.

The Mind and Life Dialogues, first held in 1987, continue to serve as a global platform for discussions on contemplative traditions and modern science.