Name: THE MEASURE OF OUR HUMANITY: with Roshi Joan Halifax, Sensei Dainin Lau and Sensei Kodo Roen at Upaya
Start: 2026-12-13T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Venue TBA

Question 1

I know Michael Pollan from his books—what's different about experiencing his work live at Upaya?

Accepted Answer

Pollan's live presentations shift from the investigative narrative of his books to direct dialogue about the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of our food choices. At a contemplative space like Upaya, expect less lecture and more exploration of how industrial agriculture shapes our consciousness and disconnects us from nature—themes that align naturally with the event's focus on 'the measure of our humanity' through Buddhist teachers like Roshi Joan Halifax.

Question 2

Will this event focus on "The Omnivore's Dilemma" specifically, or his broader work?

Accepted Answer

Given the event's framing around humanity and ethics alongside Buddhist teachers, this will likely draw from Pollan's full body of work—particularly how "The Omnivore's Dilemma" and "In Defense of Food" reveal the ethical and existential costs of how we eat. The presence of Zen senseis suggests an emphasis on mindfulness, intention, and our moral relationship with food systems rather than agricultural policy alone.

Question 3

How does Pollan's secular, science-based approach fit with a Buddhist-centered event at Upaya?

Accepted Answer

Pollan's work is fundamentally about reconnection—to soil, seasons, animals, and our own bodies—which mirrors Buddhist ethics around interconnection and non-harm. His rigorous investigation into industrial agriculture's hidden costs complements contemplative practice by revealing how unconscious consumption perpetuates suffering, making this a natural philosophical pairing rather than a mismatch.

Question 4

Is this event for people who've read Pollan's books, or can I come knowing nothing?

Accepted Answer

You don't need to have read his work beforehand, though familiarity with "The Omnivore's Dilemma" or "In Defense of Food" will deepen your engagement. The event's framing by Roshi Joan Halifax and the senseis suggests it's designed as an accessible exploration of food ethics and human responsibility, not a literary deep-dive for existing fans.

Question 5

What should I expect in terms of format—is this a panel discussion, a lecture, or a dialogue?

Accepted Answer

While specific format details aren't confirmed, Upaya's contemplative ethos and the presence of three teachers alongside Pollan suggests this will likely be an interactive dialogue or panel rather than a one-way presentation, allowing space for the Buddhist perspective on ethics and humanity to shape the conversation in real time.

Question 6

Will this event touch on Pollan's work on psychedelics and consciousness, or stay focused on food?

Accepted Answer

Based on the event title and lineup emphasizing Buddhist teachers and ethics, the focus will almost certainly be on food systems, agriculture, and our relationship with nature rather than his later psychedelics research. However, the underlying theme of consciousness and our moral relationship with the living world may create philosophical resonance across his different bodies of work.

THE MEASURE OF OUR HUMANITY: with Roshi Joan Halifax, Sensei Dainin Lau and Sensei Kodo Roen at Upaya

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