Universal applicability of Buddhist ethics

Abstract

morality or intellectuality human being. Buddhist morality and ethics are oriented around a path in which followers take responsibility for their own volitional actions. Ethics concern a philosophical reflection on morality. This contains rules of conduct and similar terms used in the evolution of human behaviour such as good and bad right and wrong. Additionally ethics and moral guidelines are defined as sila in Pali; according to Buddhist tradition. Buddhism is divided in to two parts; both sociologically and philosophically. There were two main ways of living during the life time of the Buddha. They are namely ‘self-indulgence’ and ‘self-mortification.’ Buddhism introduced the ‘middle path’ as a result of these two ways. It is difficult to categorize ethics in Buddhism. Early Buddhism hasn’t categorized and numbered the ethics. Buddhist ethics emphasize on self-welfare and altruism to society. According to Buddhist teachings ethical and moral principles are governed by examining whether a certain action (either connected to body or speech) is likely to be harmful to one’s self or others. Thereby this avoids any actions which are likely to be harmful. According to Buddhism there are many references to a ‘skilled mind.’ A mind that is skillful avoids actions. It is likely to cause suffering or remorse. The mind is great place according to the teachings of Buddhism. The human actions are divided in to three main places: mind, body, and word. The human actions depend on the mind that is known as ‘ethical side’ in Buddhism. Buddhism has emphasized many ethical points for just society. Therefore Buddhist ethical principles are very noble and help create an ideal world which would lead to peace and harmony.