Buddhism Theme 3a - Pluralism and Diversity

Question 1

What is Pluralism?

Answer 1

A condition or system in which two or more states, groups etc coexist

Question 2

What is Sectarianism?

Answer 2

Form of prejudice, discrimination arising from attached relations of superiority or inferiority

Question 3

Why could Buddhist teachings be used to support pluralism?

Answer 3

Kalama Sutra states that you should not listen to rumour, gossip etc but it also states that you should listen.

Question 4

The Buddha was open minded about other religions, what did he advise?

Answer 4

‘If only you find truth in any religion, accept the truth’

Question 5

Buddhism is not __ or _____

Answer 5

Dogmatic or superstitious

Question 6

What does Mahayana Buddhism say about Pluralism and Diversity?

Answer 6

• teachings sometimes considered to be only provisional

- different upaya to suit different listeners thus no teaching is absolute truth

Question 7

What does the Dalai Lama say about pluralism and diversity?

Answer 7

• just as one food will not appeal to everybody, it’s true that one religion or set of beliefs will not satisfy everyone’s needs
• 1986 invited all religious leaders to a large assembly in Italy (inter-faith dialogue), the leaders focused on what their religions had in common like ethics, love and compassions, they were inspirational and encouraged others to join in harmony and mutual respect

Question 8

How else can Buddhism be seen to be for pluralism and diversity?

Answer 8

• Christianity can be seen to tell us to practice, Buddhism helps us to cultivate
• TNH “he told me that Buddhism makes him a better Christian. I love that” (speaking about a Catholic Priest
• the Buddha never advised his disciples to convert people from one religion to another
• In fact he said that the greatest miracle one could perform a wicked person into a virtuous one
• there are no restrictions placed on Buddhist in terms of giving respect to other religions, they are expected to be able to maintain their basic buddhist principles whilst showing full respect for other religions

Question 9

How can Buddhism be seen as against pluralism and diversity?

Answer 9

• meditation is seen to be the most important practice in many different sects eg Zen and so following dogmatism and a creator God could be seen to distract rather than free the mind
• East Asia in Vietnam and Laos = Buddhists excommunicated Christians for Buddhism to become the faith of the country