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Buddhist Environmental Ethics and Detraditionalization: The Case of ecoBuddhism
Religion
Format: Journal Article
Publication Date: Nov 30, 1994
Pages: 199 - 211
Sources ID: 35756
Notes: ISSN 0048-721X
Visibility: Public (group default)
Abstract: (Show)
EcoBuddhism represents a modern American attempt to articulate an authentically Buddhist response to present environmental problems. This article isolates the basic features of the movement and notes a substantial shift away from traditional Buddhist cosmology. Most notably, ecoBuddhism constructs a picture of the world that is intrinsically teleologic. The factors that have given rise to this reworking of tradition are analysed and the question of authenticity is tested against a variety of critical methodologies. The ‘protestant Buddhism’ thesis, in particular, is examined and found wanting. The conclusion drawn is that ecoBuddhism should be classed as a form of reflexive apologetics generated primarily by forces originating from within the Buddhist tradition itself.