FROM SUFFERING TO HAPPINESS: CULTIVATING INNER WISDOM, LOVE, AND INTEGRITY IN THE AI AGE

Chasing success, money, and power offers only brief satisfaction, trapping us in a cycle of endless craving with often grave mental health consequences. Studies on the hedonic treadmill show that more is never enough. In this talk, I will delve into the roots of suffering and the genuine pursuit of happiness. Buddhist psychology teaches that happiness springs from a beautiful mind and heart, nurtured by wisdom and love. Reflecting on our human finitude clarifies our priorities and values, shifting our focus from self-centredness to service. As AI shapes our future, our ethical integrity and inner growth become vital for humanity’s survival.

Nikki Mirghafori is an Artificial Intelligence scientist and an internationally recognised Buddhist teacher. She serves as a Stewarding Teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre, where she is also on the Board of Directors, and as a Dharma Teacher at the Insight Meditation Centre in Redwood City, CA. She teaches with clarity and warmth on topics ranging from mindful leadership to cultivating kindness, with rare expertise in mindfulness of death. She is widely published in AI, has led international collaborations as a Berkeley academic, and advised technology startups. Of Persian heritage, she advocates for wisdom and compassion in daily life, as well as ethical AI in our zeitgeist.