Expert: Justin Choo - 6/4/2010

Question
what teachings apply when evaluating theravada buddhists position to biotechnology? what approaches to ethics apply? How does Mahayana feel about biotechnology. stem cells, cloning and gene technology

Answer
Hi Chantelle,

I have received many such questions regarding Buddhist opinion on "new age" ideas or "latest scientific" innovations.  I don't think the Buddha would know about all these new ideas; likewise I don't think any "sacred" text would contain any reference to these new discoveries.  In order to give credence to the "sacred" text, the so-called "authorities" of such "sacred" text would try to "interprete" what was written to form an "opinion" on the subjects that were never written in the text in the first place.   

Buddhism is about living a life of contentment and cultivating inner peace.  Buddhist teachings are all about knowing this self and how to rid of greed, hatred and delusion.  Once a person has developed clear understanding of self and existence, everything else will fall into place; including new discoveries of whatever kind.

Whatever new ideas humans can invent or discover, Buddhism has no problem dealing with them.  We don't have to search deep into the Buddhist text for answers.  I am quite sure I won't find anything close to "biotechnology".  

I have answered this many times, and the last two questions were on the same subject.  This is my answer to them:

"With regards to the many so-called sensitive or controversial issues, Buddhism has no problem with them. The "acid test" for such matters centres around 3 questions:

1. Does the action hurt oneself?
2. Does the action hurt others?
3. Is the action beneficial?

From the above questions, one will be able to honestly decide on the appropriate action."

Hope I have answered your question.

Take care.

Justin Choo