Abstract
This article explores potential links between Buddhism and sociology, highlighting the many commonalities between sociology
and Buddhism, with an emphasis on ways that Buddhist thought and practice may contribute to the field of sociology. What could
Buddhism offer to our understanding of social institutions, social problems, and to the dynamics and possibilities for social
change? The Four Noble Truths, central to Buddhist teachings, are explored in reference to their sociological theory applications.
Finally, mindfulness practices that are endemic to Buddhism are explored as tools for sociologists to consider as they work
reflexively, develop sociological insights, and pursue social justice.
and Buddhism, with an emphasis on ways that Buddhist thought and practice may contribute to the field of sociology. What could
Buddhism offer to our understanding of social institutions, social problems, and to the dynamics and possibilities for social
change? The Four Noble Truths, central to Buddhist teachings, are explored in reference to their sociological theory applications.
Finally, mindfulness practices that are endemic to Buddhism are explored as tools for sociologists to consider as they work
reflexively, develop sociological insights, and pursue social justice.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-20
- DOI 10.1007/s12108-012-9155-4
- Authors
- Janine Schipper, Department of Sociology and Social Work, Northern Arizona University, PO Box 15300, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
- Journal The American Sociologist
- Online ISSN 1936-4784
- Print ISSN 0003-1232