Engaging the world with the openness of Beginner's Mind requires conscious effort. Striving for Shunryu Suzuki's standard—"In the Beginner's Mind there are many possibilities, in the expert's mind there are few"—proves especially challenging when we are confronted with ideas that feel deeply hateful to us. Should we seriously consider ideas we deem deeply harmful? How do we maintain a Beginner's Mind in the face of polarizing and contentious situations?

Join James Valentini, Dean Emeritus of Columbia College and Professor of Chemistry, for a small-group discussion on ideological conflict, toleration, and Beginner’s Mind.

This dinner seminar is co-sponsored by Columbia University Religious Life will be held at the Dodge Room in Earl Hall. It is the last in a three-part series with Deantini.