Environmental Ethics in Buddhism presents a logical and thorough examination of the metaphysical and ethical dimensions of early Buddhist literature. The author determines the meaning of nature in the early Buddhist context from general Buddhist teachings on dhamma, paticcasamuppada, samsara and the cosmogony of the Agganna Sutta. Consequently, the author shows that early Buddhism can be understood as an environmental virtue ethics. To illustrate this dimension, the Jatakas are used as a source. These are a collection of over five hundred folk tales, which also belong to early Buddhist literature. This work gives an innovative approach to the subject, which puts forward a distinctly Buddhist environmental ethics that is in harmony with traditional teachings as well as adaptable and flexible in addressing environmental problems.

About the Author

Pragati Sahni is currently Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy, Delhi University. Her current research interests include Environmental Philosophy, Applied Ethics and Early Buddhist Philosophy. She has published some articles and has been a recipient of the Commonwealth Scholarship.

Reviews

"I urge Buddhist students and teachers to take up this environmental ethics discourse as a prime arena for examining the Buddha's teachings. We need to take our place at the table with Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, scientists, poets, politicians, and economists. In this regard, we can thank Sahni and other Buddhist environmental thinkers for offering us thoughtful springboards for reflection and action." -- Stephanie Kaza, Buddharma, Spring 2008

Book Information
ISBN 9780415544726
Author Pragati Sahni
Format Paperback
Page Count 210
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 410g