Buddhism and its Influence on Humankind: A Comprehensive Analysis of Buddhist Philosophy, Ethics and Contemporary Applications
Abstract
Buddhism, one of the world's major philosophical and spiritual traditions, transcends religious practice to encompass ethics, psychology, and a practical framework for human well-being that has shaped civilisations for over 2,500 years. This paper examines Buddhism's profound influence on humankind through three interconnected dimensions: (1) the foundational teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path as a timeless diagnostic framework for human suffering; (2) the psychological transformation of the individual through meditation and mindfulness practices, now validated by contemporary neuroscience; and (3) the application of Buddhist ethics ahiṃsā, karuṇā, and interdependence in addressing 21st-century global challenges including conflict resolution, environmental sustainability, mental health, and social justice. Drawing on Pāli canonical sources, historical evidence, peer-reviewed neuroscientific studies, and crossnational case studies, the paper demonstrates that the Buddha's message remains urgently relevant today. Emperor Aśoka's transformation after the Kalinga War, Gandhi's non-violent resistance, and the global adoption of mindfulness-based therapies collectively attest to Buddhism's enduring capacity to promote inner peace and global harmony.