Buddhism And Politics Flashcards
What is there a lessening of?
Extremes between Buddhism and politics
Do ideas need to be challenged?
Yes, in order to cultivate a change to society that is beneficial to secular societies as well as religious
Is Buddhism becoming more involved?
Yes
What do western societies tend to do when looking at the relationship between Buddhism and politics?
They make assumptions about their involvement with one another
Can we fully understand the relationship between Buddhism and politics?
As a westerner we cannot fully understand their relationship unless we have experienced it for ourselves
What do westerners tend to believe when looking at Buddhism in society?
They believe that they separate themselves from one another
What type of religion is Buddhism perceived to be?
An ascetic religion, where they remove themselves from society
What does this ascetic label mean people tend to assume about Buddhism?
That they remove themselves from such issues
Is Christianity perceived to have more involvement than Buddhism?
Yes - due to the ascetic label that is placed on Buddhism
Why do people tend to assume that Buddhism is not involved in political issues?
Due to the ascetic label
The fact the Buddha had removed himself from its culture and society and he did not appear to be involved in politics, culture and society
Is this the case?
No, Buddhism is often involved in political situations
Are monks involved in politics?
Nowadays monks are very involved and are popular
What do some extreme monks tend to talk about?
The issue of Islam
How do monks interact with their community?
Through social media - using modern advances to reach more people and spread their political message
Does politics appear to be something Buddhism would be involved in?
No
