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A Buddhist Contribution to Social Justice and Democracy

Ven. Sugata Priya

ABSTRACT

Many nations fail to observe or obey basic human rights.  Different nations accuse each other for violating human rights – so it seems, nowadays, social justice and democracy might not exist in numerous nations.  To develop the concepts of social justice and democracy, an examination into Buddhism must occur to gain the best viable options.  This paper tries to demonstrate from the discourses, how to develop better societies.

At the very beginning, the definitions of the terms are put forth, and summarized from various sources.  Additionally, the conceptual development of social justice and democracy occurs, according to an understanding of Buddhism; and how Buddhism encourages the development of the two principles – while aiming to be free from social, political and humanity’s selfish problems. By studying the teachings of the Buddha, and by adapting theory to practice, we can intelligently improve society while bringing better understanding amongst all people.

In knowing the profound teachings of the Buddha, we can set wonderful examples for the world to emulate – remembering to utilize Buddhist methods, theories and unique techniques to solve the social, political and individual problems – all the while this affects and encourages the development of social justice and democracy. 

BIOGRAPHY

The author is a Buddhist monk, born in Chittagong, Bangladesh in 1986.  In 1999, he was ordained as a Buddhist novice when only 12 years old, and sent to Sri Lanka for Buddhist Studies.  In Sri Lanka he finished the Ordinarily Level in 2003 and in the year 2005 he finished the Advance Level in English Medium.  In 2007, he came to Thailand to receive higher Buddhist education, currently studying his first year in Buddhist Studies, at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University.  His future ambition is to be a well-learned Buddhist monk, to serve and perform as a missionary monk.