Exploitation of the Poor - Religious Responses Flashcards
What do most Christians believe about fair pay?
Most Christians support fair pay for everyone as this contributes to an equal and just society. Do not exploit the poor because they are poor.
Proverbs 22:22 [NIV]
What do many Buddhists think about profit and ethics?
Many Buddhists consider it very important to balance profit with ethics.
How does taking workers’ time without fair pay relate to Buddhism?
Taking workers’ time and energy without paying them a fair wage goes against the second moral precept (to avoid taking what has not been freely given).
What does Buddhism teach about excessive interest on loans?
Buddhism teaches that making money by exploiting the poor is an example of greed (one of the three poisons), and against the second moral precept.
What responsibility does Buddhism assign to individuals regarding debt?
Buddhism teaches that each person has a responsibility to create the conditions for a healthy life, which includes not getting into debt if they can help it.
How does people trafficking relate to Christian and Buddhist teachings?
People-trafficking goes against Jesus’ teaching to ‘love your neighbour as yourself’, and it is against the Buddhist moral precepts.
What did the Buddha criticize that relates to exploitation?
Although people-trafficking may not have been a recognised problem when the Buddha was alive, he criticised the caste/class system in India, which exploited the poor and forced them to work in bad conditions for little money.
What are the two main ways to help the poor?
- Short-term aid (immediate help that focuses on short-term survival) or 2. Long-term aid (help over a longer period of time that has a more lasting effect).
How do many Christians and Buddhists help the poor?
Many Christians and Buddhists try to help provide both types of aid by supporting charities and campaigns that help those living in poverty.
What is one way to help the poor through Fairtrade?
Buying Fairtrade products, which have been made by workers who are paid fairly and work in good conditions.
What are some other ways to help those in poverty?
Supporting soup kitchens, food banks, and charities that provide help for those in poverty or assist them in finding work.
What type of campaigns do Christians and Buddhists support for equality?
Supporting campaigns that promote greater equality and a just society, such as the Living Wage campaign.
