A deeper materialism: Michael Stone at TEDxToronto

Summary

In this thought-provoking talk, the speaker explores the intersection of spirituality and materialism, challenging traditional notions of enlightenment. By reflecting on personal experiences and cultural expressions, such as the evolution of Buddhist representations and the rise of yoga, the speaker advocates for a 'horizontal transcendence'—a deeper connection to our material world through relationships and community. Highlighting the importance of farmers' markets as spaces for connection, the talk calls for a reimagining of spirituality that embraces the impermanence of life and the significance of love in all aspects of existence, from urban planning to environmental care.

Takeaways

• 😀 Spirituality is often perceived as separate from the material world, but it needs to be redefined in contemporary contexts.
• 🌍 The representations of spiritual figures, like the Buddha, reflect cultural interpretations influenced by history and migration.
• 🧘‍♂️ Practices such as yoga illustrate a shift towards a deeper connection with our physical bodies and experiences.
• 📦 Modern materialism is characterized by superficial attachment to possessions, which detracts from genuine engagement with the material world.
• 💔 Personal experiences with loss can lead to a desire for detachment from the material world, but this can conflict with a longing for relationships and community.
• 🔄 The concept of vertical transcendence focuses on escaping the material world, while horizontal transcendence emphasizes awakening through relationships and connections.
• 🥦 Farmers' markets exemplify horizontal transcendence, fostering community connections and supporting local agriculture.
• ❤️ A deeper materialism involves recognizing and nurturing the relationships within our environment, rather than merely seeking spiritual detachment.
• 🗣️ The importance of relationships is highlighted as essential to a fulfilling spiritual practice, bridging the gap between the spiritual and material.
• 🏙️ Spirituality should evolve to include love for the urban environment, nature, and the interconnectedness of life in a tangible, relational context.

Q & A

What does the speaker suggest about traditional views of spirituality?

The speaker suggests that traditional views often see spirituality as something invisible or intangible, requiring physical forms for representation, such as statues of the Buddha.

How does the speaker connect the concept of spirituality to modern culture?

The speaker connects spirituality to modern culture by emphasizing the need to redesign spiritual practices to fit contemporary contexts, such as urban life and environmental concerns.

What is meant by 'deeper materialism' according to the speaker?

'Deeper materialism' refers to a profound appreciation for our physical surroundings, emphasizing relationships with nature, community, and the material world rather than detachment from it.

What personal experiences does the speaker share to illustrate their points?

The speaker shares experiences with their uncle, who lived in a mental asylum, and their own travels to study spirituality, highlighting the conflict between seeking enlightenment and wanting to engage with the world.

What are 'vertical transcendence' and 'horizontal transcendence'?

Vertical transcendence is about trying to escape or rise above the material world, while horizontal transcendence focuses on waking up through relationships and connection to the physical world.

How do yoga and farmers' markets exemplify the concept of horizontal transcendence?

Yoga allows individuals to connect more intimately with their bodies, while farmers' markets foster community relationships, both contributing to a deeper engagement with the material world.

Why does the speaker believe spirituality should not lead to detachment?

The speaker believes that detachment leads to a disconnect from the important relationships and experiences in life, suggesting that true spirituality should enhance our connection to the world around us.

What is the speaker's view on the current state of consumerism?

The speaker criticizes consumerism as superficial and emphasizes the need for a deeper connection to the material world, advocating for appreciation of the resources and relationships that surround us.

How does the speaker propose we redefine spiritual practices?

The speaker proposes redefining spiritual practices by integrating them into the context of contemporary culture and focusing on relationships and community rather than abstract concepts.

What is the significance of the teacher's response about spirituality being 'Manhattan'?

The significance lies in the idea that spirituality can be found in everyday life and urban experiences, highlighting that meaningful spiritual practice can emerge from engaging with one's immediate environment.