In this inspiring conversation, Lion’s Roar editor-in-chief Melvin McLeod speaks with Buddhist monk, humanitarian, and author Matthieu Ricard about the transformative power of compassion. Ricard delves into its foundational role in Buddhism and human society, emphasizing that compassion is not merely a virtue, but the most pragmatic solution to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Drawing on his decades of work alleviating suffering in the Himalayan region and beyond as the founder of Karuna-Shechen — a nonprofit humanitarian organization celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025 — Ricard shares how altruism helps us navigate and make change in a world facing environmental crises, social inequality, and moral uncertainty. Though the forces working against positive change may seem overwhelming, says Ricard, he reminds us that selfishness cannot build a better future. Instead, altruism and care for others are the tools we must use to work together and create a more hopeful society.

Matthieu Ricard

Matthieu Ricard is a Buddhist monk who had a promising career in cellular genetics before leaving France thirty-five years ago to study Buddhism in the Himalayas. He is an author, translator, and has been a participant in scientific research on the effects that meditation has on the brain. Ricard’s work is held high regard in intellectual circles in Europe, and two books he co-authored, The Monk and the Philosopher and The Quantum and the Lotus, are best-sellers in France. He lives in Tibet and Nepal.

Melvin McLeod

Melvin McLeod is the editor-in-chief of Lion’s Roar.