Expert: Justin Choo - 10/11/2007

Question
Hi! I'm doing a project in my philosophy class and as part of the project I am interviewing an expert on Buddhism! I was wondering if you would be so kind as to answer a few questions for me.

1. Are there any aspects of traditional Buddhism that you find less applicable or more difficult to apply to life in such a modern world as ours?

2. How has Buddhism shaped your perspective on modern day issues and problems?

3. What do you think is the most important teaching of Buddhism?

Thanks so much for your time and answers!

Answer
Hi Kathleen,

1. Whether this world is "modern" or not, existence has always been the same...births, deaths, diseases, conflicts and wars.  "Traditions" belong to human societies.  "Buddhism" deals with the pristine teachings of the Buddha which are universal truths transcending race and tradition.  
Life is such that to be evil is easy but very difficult to live with.  To be good is difficult but easy to live with.

2. The teachings of the Buddha are about seeing the true nature of this existence and the universe.  Once understood, despite all the troubles and problems of this world, the person can sail through the rough waters of life.  There are many things in this world that are natural and cannot be changed.  Realizing this and by accepting this truth, one's perception of life becomes more accommodating, thus reducing the heartaches and agonies when faced with life's calamities.

3.  The traditional answer would be the 4 noble truths as expounded by the Buddha.  This encompasses his revelation of the realities of existence.  But in my opinion, for the general public, the one thing that stands out is the freedom to think and analyze the Buddha's teachings by using human intelligence and common sense.  This freedom is the epitome of Buddhism.  Buddhists are really free citizens of the world.  Just like freedom in a democracy, it encourages its citizens to voice their opinions and to progress.  In a country without much freedom, the society is stifled and stagnant with fear.  This happens to most religions.

Smile from justinchoo :-)