Several successful nations draw inspiration from Buddhism as well as people who seek guidance for the key purpose of their life. Millions of individuals possessing very distinct cultural backgrounds are adhering to the principles and teachings of Buddha. This way of life spread out across Asia as a dominating religion and quickly increased the number of followers centuries after Buddha lived.
The main focus of Buddhism is on practice rather than on belief. Instead of memorizing doctrines, they are taught how to realize truth for themselves. It is easier to grasp a richer understanding of this religion by taking it as a discipline, truly accepting their foundation-Four Noble Truth-and incorporating it in one’s life. Once, the truth is internalized, layers of teachings on matters such as nature of existence, life, death, self and suffering can be uncovered.
The main point is not only to believe but to explore and test the doctrines from your own experience. And this aspect is what makes Buddhism applicable to address social problems and concerns. Just by simply exploring the numerous studies done by famous psychologists, Buddhism’s effect on society becomes apparent. Countless journals and surveys have delved on the effects of meditation on the brain. Since, meditation is a skill commonly mastered by practicing Buddhist.
Practical solutions to real-life societal issues can be found in understanding Buddhism’s precepts. They believe that moral behavior is from curbing one’s desires and wants. Happiness only comes if you let go of your earthy desires and consuming ego. Societies experience almost similar problems from petty thefts to gruesome murders and corruption of town funds to unauthorized pork barrels. This way of life teaches us to be ethical and moral in all facets of our life. The world would be a lot more peaceful if we all practice this way of life.
Buddhist societies like Nepal and Tibet are very traditional nations that adheres to their practices and teachings piously. Common western problems are not even present in this kind of society. Depression is very common in Western countries however this condition does not exist in Tibet and other traditional Buddhism nations. They don’t have people who turn against each other and try to get ahead of everyone else whatever the means.
Several practices from Buddhism are already proving to be in use in Western countries nowadays. They integrate meditation in rehabilitation centers to further promote a better control of one’s mind. It is also a form of relaxation that relieves the stress that patient’s with withdrawal symptoms experience. This method is indeed effective and encourages retention among patient with severe addiction to alcohol and drugs.
Furthermore, Buddhism can greatly improve and change other social issues like abortion, euthanasia and more. It allows a person to look at life differently and to appreciate one’s existence in this world. Morality can be looked at from many angles. Different approaches are present in all cultures and the judgment must be done on their fruits and not only because they dominate the entire population or they have better organization edifice. Those are trivial reasoning and does not aid in the improvement of one’s country. Keep an open mind and choose what you think is best and morally upright.
Tags: social issues