Engaged Buddhism: A Primer on Awakened Action in the Modern World

Abstract

This primer on Engaged Buddhism introduces the key figures of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries who drew upon ancient Buddhist doctrines to address modern socio-economic, environmental, and political concerns. Specifically, it examines how leading Engaged Buddhists in Asia applied Buddhist teachings to meet today’s challenges of: (1) Physical Health and Wellbeing; (2) Wealth and Poverty Alleviation; (3) Environmental Activism; (4) Conflict Resolution; and (5) Gender Equality. It also provides a glossary, sample questions, and suggested assignment ideas for instructors looking to incorporate this historic movement into their Asian Studies classes. This short introduction, therefore, not only connects Buddhist doctrine and history with some of its modernday applications, but it also demonstrates that the wisdom and compassion born from mindful contemplation and moral action have always been—and continue to be—of timeless relevance on both the individual and societal levels.