THE INFLUENCE OF BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY ON EAST ASIAN CIVILIZATIONAL ETHICS

Abstract

The impact of Buddhist philosophy on the ethical frameworks of East Asian civilizations is profound and multifaceted, shaping cultural, political, and social structures across several countries, including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Buddhist teachings emphasize key ethical principles such as compassion, non-violence, mindfulness, and the importance of spiritual liberation, which have influenced the moral philosophy of these regions. This paper explores how Buddhist doctrines, particularly the concepts of karma, dharma, and the interdependence of all beings, have been integrated into the ethical norms that define East Asian societies. By examining historical texts, religious practices, and contemporary ethical thought, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how Buddhist philosophy continues to shape East Asian civilizational ethics.