Review of Buddhism and Ecology: Collective Cultural Perceptions by Lewis Lancaster

Review of Buddhism and Ecology: Collective Cultural Perceptions by Lewis Lancaster

By Nivitigala Sumitta (Bhante Sumitta)

This review provides an overview of Lancaster's article and its significance within the broader context of Buddhist studies and environmental ethics. By critically examining the intersections of culture, religion, and ecology, Lancaster offers a nuanced perspective on the potential contributions of Buddhism to contemporary environmental challenges.

Lewis Lancaster's article, Buddhism and Ecology: Collective Cultural Perceptions, provides a thought-provoking examination of the intersection between Buddhism and environmental issues. He explores how Buddhism, with its rich historical and cultural background, can offer unique perspectives on ecological challenges. The central theme of Lancaster's work is the caution against imposing Western cultural perceptions onto Buddhist practices and beliefs, particularly in the realm of environmentalism.

Lancaster begins by acknowledging the growing interest in Buddhist approaches to ecology, emphasizing the importance of reappraising methods and sources in Buddhist studies. He stresses that while Buddhism offers valuable insights into environmental conservation, there is a risk of misinterpreting these insights through the lens of Western cultural norms. Lancaster's argument is centered around the idea that Western approaches to charity and aid, which often involve a patronizing attitude toward the "deserving poor," may not align with Buddhist concepts of compassion and assistance. He illustrates this with the example of the Taiwanese nun Jen-yen, whose approach to charity and healthcare transcends the typical Western model by offering help universally, without any sense of condescension.

One of the most compelling aspects of Lancaster's article is his discussion on the "collective cultural perceptions" that shape our understanding of Buddhism and ecology. He warns that without a deep understanding of these perceptions, there is a danger of selectively interpreting Buddhist texts and practices to fit modern Western ethical norms. This could lead to a distorted view of Buddhism's potential contributions to ecological discourse.

Lancaster also delves into historical contexts, comparing the spread of Buddhism across different cultures with varying perceptions of nature. He contrasts the Indian view of forests as dangerous and wild with the Chinese appreciation of nature's healing and spiritual qualities. This comparison highlights Buddhism's adaptability and its ability to offer diverse ecological insights depending on cultural contexts.

Furthermore, Lancaster challenges the common Western perception of nature as a "Garden of Eden" and critiques the tendency to romanticize a return to an untouched natural state. He argues that Buddhism, particularly in its historical context, offers a more nuanced view of nature, one that recognizes the dangers and challenges inherent in the natural world. This perspective is crucial in rethinking how we approach environmental issues today, acknowledging that nature is not merely a victim in need of rescue but a powerful and dynamic force.

The article concludes with a call for a new kind of asceticism in response to contemporary environmental challenges. Lancaster suggests that Buddhism's teachings on mindfulness, simplicity, and moderation can provide a valuable framework for addressing issues such as overconsumption and population growth. He advocates for an asceticism that is not only life-affirming but also adaptable to the modern world, emphasizing that any environmental solution must be both practical and spiritually fulfilling.

Overall, Lancaster's Buddhism and Ecology: Collective Cultural Perceptions is a significant contribution to the field of Buddhist studies and environmental ethics. His careful analysis of the cultural perceptions that influence our understanding of Buddhism, coupled with his exploration of Buddhism's potential role in ecological discourse, offers valuable insights for scholars and practitioners alike. Lancaster's work reminds us of the importance of cultural sensitivity and historical context when seeking to apply Buddhist principles to contemporary global challenges.

References

Lancaster, Lewis. "Buddhism and Ecology: Collective Cultural Perceptions." Buddhism and Ecology, edited by Mary Evelyn Tucker and Duncan Ryuken Williams, Harvard University Press, 1997.