Buddhist Ethics vs. Western Traditions

Comparing Buddhist Ethics to Western Traditions

• Buddhist ethics have been compared to Western traditions, but the question is raised if Buddhism stands alone or if it belongs in a cluster of other philosophies.
• Although there is no theory like Buddhism, its central questions and concerns are not entirely unique.

Different Approaches to Buddhist Ethics

• Different approaches to Buddhist ethics exist, with Theravada appearing to be virtue-oriented.
• Santideva's approach appears to be consequentialist.
• One path emphasizes reverence for the Buddha while the other does not.
• Buddhist ethics have been compared to Christian Protestantism, and both emphasize the Four Noble Truths.
• These include:
  • The suffering inherent in existence.
  • The cause of suffering, attachment, and ignorance.
  • The end of suffering, nirvana.
  • The path leading to the end of suffering, the Eightfold Path.

Buddhism and Deontology

• Buddhism is opposed to the idea of duty.
• Buddhism lacks the metaphysics and structure to impose obligations on others.
• While duties exist, they are derived from an understanding of the nature of existence and the delusions of selfhood.

Buddhism and Utilitarianism

• A connection between Buddhism and utilitarianism is thought to be found in Buddhism's emphasis on living meaningfully.
• However, the connections between Buddhism and utilitarianism are viewed as tenuous because the conditions cited are necessary but not sufficient for utilitarianism.
• It is unclear if utilitarian calculus is always applicable to Buddhism.

Buddhism as Virtue Ethics

• Buddhism's fundamental commitment is to principles that promote certain values or goods.
• An Aristotelian view of Buddhist insight into human nature suggests three fundamental goods: life, knowledge, and friendship.
• These goods are seen as fundamental to human flourishing.
• It remains a question how to identify and understand the suggested fundamental values of Buddhism.

Explore the similarities and differences between Buddhist ethics and Western ethical traditions. This quiz delves into various approaches within Buddhism, including Theravada and consequentialism, while also comparing concepts like the Four Noble Truths with Western philosophies. Test your understanding of ethics through a Buddhist lens.