Buddhist Answers

The world has progressed in terms of scientific knowledge, but there are still wars and strife. What does Buddhism have to say about this?

Many people believed that science would be the saviour of humanity. We worshipped scientific facts, and believed that technological advancements would shield us from the sufferings. This was perhaps the biggest myth of the last century. That is not to say that science has not offered benefits. It has - definitely. Through medical advancements, life expectancy has doubled since the beginning of the 19th century, and life has become easier. While these are admirable achievements, the root causes of war and strife still remain beyond the realm of science.

Why is this? Well, the cause of war, strife as well as personal suffering lie within our own minds. As the Dalai Lama has said, “Peace starts within each one of us. When we have inner peace, we can be at peace with those around us.” When individuals harbour anger towards colleagues or neighbours how could international peace be achieved? It is like expecting healthy plants to grow from polluted soil.

We suffer because our action is rooted in the mistaken view of a separate self and other. We view the world as if from a fortress, and so even compassion is tainted with the desire to gain something - if only a sense of personal satisfaction. Only when we recognize that our connection to the world is no different to the relationship between the heart and the physical body does our altruistic action flow naturally.

Not understanding that things have no inherent existence causes frustration and disappointment. In reality, everything with characteristics has no more substance than a rainbow or mirage. While this might sound complicated, in reality it is not.

Let’s examine a piece of paper. It is made of wood that came from a tree. In turn, the tree developed from a seed that interacted with soil, moisture and heat. The paper is merely a combination of elements, and there is nothing inherently called paper. All things exist in the same way. If we recognize this truth, then it is perfectly acceptable to follow a rainbow or to play with a mirage. Suffering arises when we try to grasp and hold these things believing they truly exist. Again, like the man in the forest, a mistaken view results in pain.

So, if science cannot create the conditions for inner wellbeing, should we reject it? No. Science offers benefits for mankind. At the same time, however, we should not consider science as the saviour of the world. The best solution is to use scientific developments, but view them with the eyes of wisdom. In this way, we remain in our environment and use its benefits, but are free from the suffering caused by attachment and expectations.

Read the full article here : Kaunsel Online: Bhutan's Daily news site