In this talk Andy Hallahan explores the integration of Buddhist principles with environmentalism, termed ecoBuddhism.
Andy, affiliated with the Rangjung Yeshe Institute in Nepal, delves into how Buddhist teachings and practices intersect with environmental activism.
He examines historical contexts, such as the influence of the Parliament of Religions in 1893, and figures like Gary Snyder and Arne Naess, who have shaped ecoBuddhist thought by highlighting deep ecology, a concept emphasizing the intrinsic value of nature and the interconnectedness of all beings.
The lecture also touches upon various interpretations and practices across cultures, from Thai environmental monks to American Buddhists.
Andy critically assesses the myth of an inherent ecological consciousness in ancient Buddhism, noting that environmental activism among Buddhists is a modern phenomenon.
He discusses how traditional Buddhist views, such as those in the Abhidharma and Lankavatara Sutra, emphasize interconnectedness and the non-material aspects of existence, which contemporary ecoBuddhism integrates into its ethos.
Additionally, Andy addresses misconceptions about ancient Buddhism’s ecological perspective and the historical evolution of ecoBuddhist practices, advocating for a nuanced understanding of Buddhism’s role in environmentalism.
