[Buddha-l] Buddhism as a 'Selfish' Religion

[Erik Hoogcarspel]

Warner Belanger schreef:
> Denizens!
> Does anyone have any suggestions to advance the discussion either to
> disprove or agree with the statement that the goal of nirvana in Buddhism is
> inherently selfish?
>
> I realize this is an old discussion after looking at Almond's "The British
> Discovery of Buddhism", but fresh takes on it would be welcome, besides
> pointing out that the doctrine of anatman negates in someway the idea of
> 'selfishness'.
>
> The suggestions can be as technical or popular as you like. I have a feeling
> this might be a reoccurring question in my Intro classes.
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Warner
>
>   
Hi Warner,

to me this is just a confusion of concepts. Selfish means only caring 
for your own interest. No selfish person can reach nirvANa, one has to 
become unselfish and that is the best way to help other people. If you 
accept that Buddhism is (partly, largely) a virtue ethics, than taking 
care of yourself is the best you can do. This is not selfish at all. The 
Buddhist practice, like the one of Socrates, Stoics, Epicureans etc. 
consists foremost in perfecting yourself untill you become an inspiring 
beacon to others. While doing this you become less and less selfish and 
sensitive to the suffering of others. In this way you become a caring 
person, helping others without any second thought.
Why not start helping people right away and not waste time with 
meditation? Well, if you do that, you may cure some symptoms of samsAra, 
but not the root of suffering. This is what Christians do because they 
think that taking care of the causes of suffering is a job for God.


-- 


Erik

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