Ethical Living
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140EEquanimity versus ApathyAnalyze the critical distinction between equanimity and apathy by examining how each responds to witnessing harm or injustice; evaluate when compassionate action requires skillful intervention versus accepting what cannot be changed; and implement discernment practices that demonstrate caring engagement without emotional overwhelm, using skillful means to address harmful situations while maintaining inner balance and open-heartedness.
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116ENot Killing/VegetarianismFormulate a clear rationale for your choice regarding vegetarianism, and evaluate your capacity to demonstrate tolerance and understanding towards those who make different choices.
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119EPracticing Paramitas in SocietyAnalyze 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.
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124EEngaged BuddhistsAnalyze the work of exemplary, socially engaged Buddhists; implement their principles in daily life; and evaluate how modern engaged Buddhism aligns with the Buddha’s original teachings.
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127EKarma and the Practice of Life ReleaseEvaluate the Buddhist practice of life release within contemporary ecological contexts, analyze the ethical complexities of wildlife conservation and animal welfare, and design compassionate actions that authentically preserve life while considering environmental impact and cultural sensitivity.
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134EPolarization and ToleranceAnalyze how Buddhist teachings on pratityasamutpada (dependent origination) support tolerance and dialogue across differences; evaluate the causes and consequences of polarization in contemporary society; and implement communication strategies that demonstrate deep listening while expressing personal views with appropriate humility and confidence based on dharmic principles.
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135ESubjectivityAnalyze how Buddhist teachings on dependent origination explain the subjective nature of perception; evaluate the limitations of individual perspectives by practicing systematic perspective-taking exercises; and synthesize understanding by applying multiple-viewpoint analysis to complex problems while demonstrating awareness of the relative nature of all viewpoints.
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137EEnvironmental Stewardship as Sacred PracticeCompare and contrast Buddhist, indigenous, and Western perspectives on environmental responsibility; analyze how Buddhist principles of interdependence and compassion inform ecological ethics; and implement environmental practices that demonstrate Buddhist values of non-harm and care for all sentient beings.
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138EWorking with MiscommunicationAnalyze the role of dependent origination and subjective perception in creating miscommunication and conflict; evaluate various conflict resolution techniques through the lens of Buddhist principles; and implement mediation practices that help others recognize multiple perspectives while fostering mutual understanding and harmony.
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139EEngaging with EquanimityAnalyze how attachment to idealistic expectations creates suffering in social engagement; evaluate how equanimity enables balanced responsiveness to change while maintaining compassion; and implement community service approaches that demonstrate neither detached indifference nor rigid attachment to outcomes.