Cause and Effect

• 418Abstaining from Intoxicants

  Differentiate between the precept against intoxicants and the broader principle of mattanuta (knowing the right amount); analyze how mindful consumption supports clarity of mind and ethical behavior; and evaluate personal consumption patterns across various domains (substances, media, material goods) using Buddhist principles of moderation and awareness.
• 417Refraining 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.
• 321Dependent Origination of Objects

  Analyze the origins and destinations of everyday objects, and differentiate the complex physical, ecological, social, and economic factors that create our interconnected world.
• 416Refraining 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.
• 224Cross-Cultural Dialogue

  Design thoughtful, respectful questions to investigate others’ beliefs and lineage, balancing confidence, tact, and humility, and evaluate how this approach enhances cross-cultural understanding.
• 231Three Yanas: Mahayana Buddhism

  Articulate the distinctive characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism, including the bodhisattva ideal and emphasis on universal liberation; analyze how Mahayana approaches to practice (emptiness philosophy, Pure Land practice, Zen meditation) address different paths to awakening; and evaluate the relationship between Mahayana adaptability and preservation of core Buddhist principles.
• 307The Logic of Practicing Virtue

  Recall the ten virtuous and non virtuous actions, and analyze how applying these principles creates beneficial effects in daily life.
• 134Polarization and Tolerance

  Analyze 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.
• 135Subjectivity

  Analyze 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.
• 138Working with Miscommunication

  Analyze 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.