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In an era dominated by digital connections, how can we foster genuine human connections that enhance our well-being, effectiveness, and contribute positively to the world? This question has intrigued meditators, researchers, and many others since the beginning of digital technology’s proliferation.
It’s also the foundational inquiry of Wisdom 2.0, an annual conference that attracts thought leaders from various sectors including technology, activism, healing, and mindfulness to engage in discussions about how we can live more connected, mindful lives amidst rapid technological change. This year Wisdom 2.0 will be celebrating the 15th anniversary of the conference, which is set to take place from April 24th to 26th, 2024, in San Francisco.
What to Expect at Wisdom 2.0 in 2024
Held at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the lineup for Wisdom 2.0 2024 promises a diverse array of presentations, workshops, and discussions, all brought together under a common theme: “The Essential.” The conference leaders contend that to explore what’s truly essential prompts us to reflect on the core aspects of our lives—our work, relationships, and the broader societal context.
Featured speakers of the conference include Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and author of Wherever You Go, There You Are; Christine Cordero, clinical professor of psychiatry at University of California-Los Angeles and executive director of the Mindsight Institute; bestselling author James Nestor (Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art); and mindful parenting expert and conference cohost Michelle Gale.
The event aims to foster an environment where participants can gain insights, share experiences, and cultivate practices that support a more mindful, compassionate existence.
Space for Meaningful Conversations About AI
Occurring just over one year after large language models such as ChatGPT were released publicly—followed by an explosion of the global use of these tools in just about every context imaginable—this year’s conference will also emphasize the emerging domain of artificial intelligence (AI). This focus is driven by a collective aspiration to understand and navigate the implications of AI on humanity’s future.
This year’s emphasis on artificial intelligence reflects an interest in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements. The conference seeks to explore how AI can be developed and utilized in ways that uphold and enhance human values and well-being. While AI itself is relatively new, this focus mirrors the conference’s long-standing mission to bridge the gap between technology and mindfulness in meaningful ways.
To those new to Wisdom 2.0, the focus on emerging technologies may be surprising. Conference founder Soren Gordhamer addresses this integration of technology and mindfulness. “The real question is not whether the external technologies of our age will continue to develop—they most likely will,” says Gordhamer. “The real question is if the inner technologies of awareness, wisdom, and compassion will develop as well. Wisdom 2.0 is dedicated to this exploration.”
Moving Toward Wisdom
For those seeking to engage with critical conversations around technology, values, and numerous aspects of mindful living, Wisdom 2.0 2024 is setting out to provide a space to explore what is truly essential in our lives and society. The guiding aspiration of the conference is for this to play a significant part of the broader movement toward a more conscious, connected, and compassionate world, inviting each participant to reflect on their role in shaping a mindful future. For those interested in being part of the Wisdom 2.0 experience, more information can be found at the conference’s official website.
