As Buddhism transitions to the West, we see that it is doing so in a couple different ways. Some forms look more like their original Asian roots, while others are secular and non-Religious in their presentation. Zen teacher Norman Fischer, an early 2nd generation teacher in the lineage of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, calls the more traditional forms part of “Plan A” and the more secular forms, “Plan B.”
In this interview we discuss with Norman the importance of Plan B approaches, like Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction. We also discuss his personal experience teaching Plan B at places like Google. Finally, we explore how the livelihood of trained and competent meditation teachers may rely heavily on Plan B approaches.
This is part 1 of a two-part series. Listen to part 2, Buddhism and the Evolution of Religion.
Episode Links:
Why We Need a Plan B ( http://bit.ly/1TOGMs0 )
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction ( http://www.mindfullivingprograms.com/whatMBSR.php )
Everyday Zen ( http://www.everydayzen.org )