Ven. Dr. G. Chandima delivered a thought-provoking Dhamma teaching at Nalanda Centre on “Cyborg Sīla: Buddhist Virtue Ethics in the Age of Transhumanism”.

On Sunday 9 August, Ven. Dr. G. Chandima delivered a thought-provoking Dhamma teaching at Nalanda Centre on “Cyborg Sīla: Buddhist Virtue Ethics in the Age of Transhumanism”, exploring the disciplined ethical integration of technology within the path of self-cultivation.

Ven. Chandima examined how transhumanism seeks to harness rapid advances in science and technology through genetic engineering, neural implants, AI symbiosis, cryonics and mind-uploading to transcend biological limitations such as ageing, suffering and cognitive constraints.  Yet, from the Buddhist perspective, extending life or enhancing human abilities does not necessarily free us from dukkha, craving and attachment.  Technological advancement seeks to transcend through acceleration, whereas the Buddha’s path to liberation is through relinquishment.

Ven. Chandima was warmly welcomed by Nalanda leaders and devotees.

The Sunday Service commenced with offering of items.

Nalanda members and devotees respectfully welcomed Ven. Chandima.

A key reflection was that virtue and wisdom cannot simply be engineered through technology.  Neuro-enhancement may alter behaviour, but is not the same as moral cultivation.  Virtue arises through the gradual cultivation of sīla, samādhi and paññā, is guided by Right View.  Technology can support our practice but cannot replace the inner transformation of the mind.

We were also reminded that true transcendence is not about gaining greater control or extending our capabilities indefinitely, but about freedom from craving and clinging.  As technology becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, we should therefore ask not merely, “Should we enhance humanity?” but “What kind of humanity are we enhancing?”

Our heartfelt appreciation to Ven. Dr. Chandima for this timely, compassionate and deeply reflective teaching, reminding us to use technology with mindfulness, not as mindfulness.

Sādhu anumodana!

Ven. Chandima explained that from the Buddhist perspective, extending life or enhancing human abilities does not necessarily free us from dukkha, craving and attachment.

Ven. Chandima giving advice to Nalanda leaders.

Ven. Chandima placing his well wishes to the interactive corner at ‘Terima Kasih, Dhammananda’ Exhibition.

Everyone was rejoicing in activities and programmes held at Wisdom Park.

Offering of lunch dana to Ven. Chandima.

A group photo with Ven. Chandima after the Dhamma teaching.