Ecological Responsibility: A Dialogue With Buddhism : A Collection of Essays & Talks

Book Details

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author (Edited By): Julia Martin

• Language: English

• Edition: 1997

• Pages: 206 (Includes 3 Color Illustrations)

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 12.5 cm

• Weight: 377 gm

• ISBN: 9788170305293

About the Book

This book, edited by Julia Martin, explores the intersection of Buddhism and ecology through essays collected from a groundbreaking conference held in New Delhi, titled Ecological Responsibility: A Dialogue with Buddhism. The contributors, including notable figures such as H.H. Dalai Lama, Radha Burnier, Ramachandra Gandhi, and Robert A.F. Thurman, reflect on how Buddhist teachings can offer solutions for environmental healing, and how the global ecological crisis influences Buddhist thought.

The book delves into mutual reciprocity, asking how Buddhist practice and teachings can help address the global environmental crisis and how this crisis, in turn, is reshaping Buddhism itself. It highlights the interconnection between human actions and the health of our planet and emphasizes the role of compassion, non-violence, and universal responsibility in mitigating environmental destruction.

Key Highlights:

• Buddhism and Ecology:
  A collection of essays exploring the relationship between Buddhist philosophy and the environmental crisis. The contributors examine how Buddhist teachings can inspire action towards healing the environment.

• Global Environmental Crisis:
  The essays assess the ecological challenges facing the world today and discuss how Buddhism can shape and redefine our response to environmental destruction.

• Contributors:
  Contributions from a diverse group of thinkers, activists, and spiritual leaders, including H.H. Dalai Lama, Radha Burnier, Robert A.F. Thurman, and Sunderlal Bahuguna, who offer insights into how Buddhist thought can offer solutions for ecological healing.

• Practical Ecological Engagement:
  The book not only analyzes the crisis but also proposes practical steps for individuals and communities to engage with the environment through Buddhist mindfulness, compassion, and eco-spiritual practices.

• Ecology and Spiritual Dialogue:
  An exploration of the ways in which ecology and spiritual traditions, particularly Buddhism, can engage in dialogue to promote environmental sustainability.

• Foreword by H.H. Dalai Lama:
  In the foreword, His Holiness the Dalai Lama shares his reflections on the importance of non-violence, compassion, and universal responsibility in our approach to the environment.

• Ecological Mindfulness:
  The book emphasizes the development of mental peace and inner balance as crucial components of environmental protection, suggesting that mental tranquility is key to finding harmony with nature.

• Global Perspectives on Environmental Ethics:
  Featuring voices from around the world, the book presents diverse perspectives on how spiritual practices can address environmental concerns. The interdependence of all life is a key Buddhist teaching that resonates with ecological thinking.

Ideal For:

• Students and Scholars of Buddhism:
  Those looking to understand how Buddhist teachings can inform and shape environmental activism and ethics.

• Environmental Activists and Ecologists:
  Perfect for those exploring spiritual perspectives on environmental issues and eco-conscious practices rooted in Buddhist thought.

• General Readers Interested in Eco-Spirituality:
  A must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of spirituality and environmental stewardship, particularly those curious about eco-Buddhism.