Buddhadhama for Strengthening in Sociological Perspective

Abstract

This article is to study the concept of sociology which is concerned with human behavior according to scientific methodology. It is related to belief, value, education, career, government, etc. The Buddhist sociology is the study of sociology that appears in Buddhist principles and to apply the Buddha’s teachings to solve the social problems and develop society to grow up. Especially, the Buddhadhamma that strengthens the society in following aspects: 1) to strengthen life, for example Five Precepts (Sīla) and Five Virtues (Dhamma), Four Paths of Accomplishment (Aiddhipāda); 2) to strengthen society, for example Six Directions (Dissa), Four Bases of Sympathy (Saṅgahavatthu), Four Holy Abidings (Brammavihāra); 3) to strengthen economy, for example Four House-life Happiness (Gihisukha), Virtues Conducive to Benefits in the Present (Diṭṭhadhammikattha); 4) to strengthen government, for example Monarchy System or Absolute Monarchy System that follows the Ten Virtues of the King (Rājadhamma), Twelve Duties of a Universal King (Cakkavattivatta); and Four Ruler Bases of Sympathy (Rājasaṅgahavatthu) and Republic System that follows the Seven Conditions of Welfare (Aparihāra); and 5) to strengthen  environmental conservation, for example the story of Vanaropana Sutta.

           Buddhadhamma as mentioned above, it is proved that Buddhist principles are really for support, peace, and happiness of the world. In addition, Buddhadhamma is not only for the benefits of monks’ life but also for laypeople’s life. It is also called for Mundane and Supramundane Dhamma. Hence, Buddhism has the principles for personal life to support the quality of being an individual and for community to support relationship between personal and family or society.