Foundational Texts in Humanistic Buddhism

Subject Overview

This subject explores the historical and philosophical evolution of Humanistic Buddhism, tracing its roots in early Buddhist teachings to its modern reinterpretation. It examines key passages from canonical texts across Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna traditions, highlighting values such as compassion, loving-kindness, and wisdom. Through a study of more recent commentaries by Humanistic Buddhist masters, students will gain insight into how these values are interpreted and articulated in contemporary contexts. The subject emphasises analytical study of foundational texts and their modern interpretations, deepening understanding of Humanistic Buddhisms’s principles and development. By engaging with these texts, students will critically analyse and articulate these values through modern language and media. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Survey the literature on Humanistic Buddhism, identify scholarly works and primary sources to construct a preliminary bibliography.
2. Critically reflect on the conceptualisation of ‘humanistic’ in Buddhism based on Western and Eastern concepts, engaging with key passages from canonical texts to explore their implications for personal and/or communal growth.
3. Critically evaluate the contributions of recent commentaries by Humanistic Buddhist teachers, assessing their relevance and impact on contemporary interpretations and practices.
4. Design a set of creative campaign messages that communicates a core value of Humanistic Buddhism using modern language and media, fostering awareness and engagement in contemporary society. 

Assessments

• Assessment 1: Bibliography on a core humanistic value (10%, due week 2)
• Assessment 2: Reflective essay on the development of the ‘humanistic’ concept in Buddhism (30%, due week 6)
• Assessment 3: Essay on how contemporary Buddhist masters have interpreted a core humanistic Buddhist value (30%, due week 8)
• Assessment 4: Campaign design of messages that communicates a core humanistic Buddhist value to a broader audience (30%, due week 10)