Buddhism for a rational modern world

Kulvinder Matharu — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:58:22 +0000

Being Human posts a rather interesting article about Buddhism, amongst the religions, probably being the closest to a fully rational philosophy; the article goes on to describes some of the problems with Buddhism as a religion. What has bothered me most with Buddhism has been its irrational elements, the superstitious elements such as karma and re-birth. There are, of course, many Buddhist sects, each with a different set of philosophes and superstitions; some sects de-emphasising the superstitious elements. The Dalai Lama, although seen as a hero my many, is much steeped in superstitions although there have been attempts over the years to put some spin on this.

Get rid of all that re-birth, karma, etc and what do you have? Sam Harris’s famous article, Killing the Buddha, argues that the original core tenants of Buddhism would be better served if they were not wrapped around a religious framework (a PDF version is also available).

Being Human explains that the original Buddhism, stripped of the superstitions and the other claptrap added by later generations, is a compelling philosophical framework. Perhaps. But is it sill recognisable as being “Buddhist”? I do not understand why a secular Buddhist philosophy is needed as there already appears to be an innate moral code in all of us, and I am not sure that secular Buddhism adds anything meaningful, However, but I am receptive to what it says so further research is called for. The Secular Buddhist appears to be a good place to start.

On a related note, I do recognise that there are many people who are uncomfortable in living without a ready-made philosophical framework and perhaps a secular Buddhism would help, even if as a transitory phase to a life free of dogmas. Those disillusioned with with Christianity or Islam, for example, may look at Buddhism where a secular form may appeal. Being Human has made a similar argument for Epicureanism philosophy and has, of coursed, noted the similarities with the early forms of Buddhism.

Article by Kulvinder Singh Matharu – 2011

Blair Witch

Kulvinder Matharu — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:05:58 +0000

Thanks to http://skeptico.blogs.com/skeptico/2009/09/tony-blair-on-faith.html, we see yet more evidence of the warped logic of the ex-British Prime Minister Tony Blair. He’s eagerness to jump into the clutches of the religious, and his condemnation of atheism both indicate that he is a person who has taken a path in which religious dogmas will sustain and prosper his delusions at the expense of critical thinking. He now only hears what he wants to hear.

It’s rather sad as I once admired him. As well as the disappointment that I feel for all his lost potential, I also believe that he is a dangerous individual. He has already condemned atheism. He will soon start talking about carrying out God’s will…the God in this case is that imagined by the superstitions of Roman Catholicism and, despite what religious accommodationists may say, is not compatible with other other religions such as Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism. They are not all different paths to some common truth. They are fundamentally different. Blair’s failure to see this is one of his greatest weaknesses and is an indication that there are other things that he does not recognise. He therefore cannot be relied upon and should keep out of the issues afflicting this world. He should sort his own mind out first!

Article by Kulvinder Singh Matharu – 2009

Matharu's Rants and Raves » Buddhism

Buddhism for a rational modern world

Blair Witch