The use of market values and technology as a social barometer has devalued the worth of individuals, rendered irrelevant the quality of their lives, and stunted their creativity.
Sulak SivaraksaRadical transformation of society requires personal and spiritual change first or at least simultaneously
Sulak SivaraksaIt is not a Buddhist approach to say that if everyone practiced Buddhism, the world would be a better place. Wars and oppression begin from this kind of thinking.
Sulak SivaraksaPeople seeking to live spiritually must be concerned with their social and physical environment.
Sulak SivaraksaWe have more than enough programs, organisations, parties, and strategies in the world for the alleviation of suffering and injustice.
Sulak SivaraksaBuddhism is not concerned just with private destiny, but with the lives and consciousness of all beingsAny attempt to understand Buddhism apart from its social dimension is fundamentally a mistake. Until Western Buddhists understand this, their embrace of Buddhism will not help very much in the efforts to bring about meaningful and positive social change, or even in their struggle to transform their ego.
Sulak Sivaraksa