Ethical Insight

• 116ENot Killing/Vegetarianism

  Formulate a clear rationale for your choice regarding vegetarianism, and evaluate your capacity to demonstrate tolerance and understanding towards those who make different choices.
• 118ENot Taking Life

  Analyze the first precept’s prohibition against killing in relation to Buddhist teachings on interdependence and compassion; evaluate the ethical complexities of protecting life in contemporary contexts (environmental conservation, food choices, medical decisions); and synthesize understanding by implementing life-affirming practices that demonstrate reverence for all sentient beings while addressing practical challenges of modern living.
• 119EPracticing Paramitas in Society

  Analyze how the first three paramitas (generosity, discipline, patience) function as frameworks for cross-cultural ethical behavior; evaluate cultural etiquette practices through the lens of Buddhist principles; and design respectful engagement strategies that honor diverse customs while maintaining commitment to non-harm and beneficial action.
• 123EPreservation of the Dharma

  Evaluate choices that might contribute to the preservation of Buddhist traditions, and create strategies that ensure the continuation of dharma practices and teachings over time, supported with knowledge of historical efforts to protect and preserve the Buddhadharma.
• 416ERefraining from Sexual Misconduct

  Analyze the Buddhist understanding of sexual misconduct within the context of consent, honesty, and non-harm; evaluate how the principles of respect and mindfulness apply to intimate relationships; and synthesize understanding by examining how this precept supports both personal integrity and healthy community relationships.
• 417ERefraining from stealing

  Analyze the concept of “taking what is not given” beyond simple theft to include deception, exploitation, and environmental harm; evaluate the karmic relationship between stealing and loss as described in Buddhist teachings; and synthesize understanding by implementing practices of generosity (dana) that counteract acquisitive tendencies.
• 466ERight Action

  Analyze potential consequences of actions in different areas of life, honestly acknowledging personal challenges and ethical blind spots, and create a systematic approach to decision-making that prioritizes universal well-being and harmony.
• 409ERight Effort

  Implement the principles of right effort in daily life; analyze opportunities to cultivate wholesome thoughts and actions; and evaluate how this practice transforms well-being and relationships.
• 425ERight Livelihood

  Evaluate activities based on their quality of creating benefit or harmony without harming, and analyze the concept of right livelihood.