Buddhism for Development Project (BDP) and Development of Lao Society
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Abstract
The research in this article, which is a qualitative paper in nature, has shown that
the aims of social development in Lao Theravada Buddhism are twofold. The primary aim
is the improvement of life in the society, protection of human rights, and the preservation of
the natural environment. The secondary aim is the personal development of individuals. It
has also shown that Buddhism for Development Project is concerned with longer term and
sustainable social development in Laos, particularly in the six fi elds of (1) Vipassanā meditation,
(2) Dhamma Sanjorn, (3) Community Development, (4) Media and Communications, (5)
Training and Curriculum, and (6) Metta-Dhamma. All of the departments in the BDP have
functions related to social development in Lao society. The Lao Buddhist Saṅgha performs
many roles as it uses Buddhist doctrine for further social development and improvement of
the lives of many people in Lao society. Furthermore, according to this study, the members of
the Saṅgha also take part in a range of Buddhist ceremonies, lead people of the community
in the development of organic agriculture, support and protect the environment, and play
various roles in HIV and tuberculosis prevention and treatment activities.
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Views and opinions expressed in the articles published by The Journal of the International Association of Buddhist Universities (JIABU), are of responsibility by such authors but not the editors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors.
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