Lessons and Learnings for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Study of Teachings and Metaphysics of the Bodhisatta Buddha

Abstract

Background: This paper aims to analyze the issues of sustainable development and its goals from the Buddhist perspective.

Methods: Methodologically, it employs a systematic review process that explores the various themes of Buddhism, as outlined in the teachings of the Buddha, and applies these themes to the analysis of sustainable development.

Results: The major findings of the study include that the contested discourse of sustainable development can be discussed much better with Buddhist philosophy and hermeneutics. Materialistic development alone cannot be the sole indicator of development, and the materialistic interpretation of development has been in a profound crisis. In this context, the Buddhist perspective seems to be an alternative and more humanistic approach to development. There are two aspects in the teachings of the Buddha, or the Buddhist perspective: theoretical (pariyatti) and practical (patipatti). Both aspects are equally important as both have played significant roles from their origin to the modern era. However, materialistic development, even its fullest achievement, has not proven to be sufficient for the eradication of dukha (suffering and misery) at both the individual and collective levels of society.

Conclusion: Hence, this paper concludes that the practical aspects of the Buddha's Teachings can help alleviate such dukha and foster sukha, i.e., peace and harmony in society, which is the ultimate metaphysics of sustainable development.