A Buddhist Critical Appraisal of Human Security Paradigm

Abstract

Since 1990s, human security has raised its profile in global arena as international community stressed the protection of each individual and enhancement of the quality of their life as a foundation for social and global stability. This research analyzes the compatibility between human security and Buddhism. Though the goal of Buddhism is the individual liberation from suffering and the achievement of inner serenity, Buddha’s socio-political and economic advices to those in power during his time, and modern Buddhist activities represented by Socially Engaged Buddhism illustrate the interdependence between socio-political and economic environment and individual spiritual development. Poverty, lack of access to basic social welfare, and social discrimination need to be addressed. While showing the compatibility, the research also makes a Buddhist critical appraisal of the core components of human security – human rights and economy. The critical appraisal of human rights shows the differences of the view of self between the West and Buddhism. While the former stresses individualism, the latter proposes relational self that emphasizes an interdependent human relationship since Buddhism considers the excessive individualism can cause conflict and division between people. However, the critique also shows their complementary