The Comparision of Buddhist and Western Political Approach
Keywords:
Buddhist Political Theory, Western Political Thought, Justice, Asoka, NonviolenceAbstract
This documentary research examines the comparative foundations of Buddhist and Western political approaches, focusing on theories of justice, governance, violence, and ethical legitimacy. Drawing upon classical Buddhist texts, historical cases particularly the Aokan (Asokan) paradigm in Theravāda societies and Western political theory such as John Rawls’ conception of justice, the study explores how differing civilizational assumptions shape political authority and public policy. The research highlights the Buddhist emphasis on moral intention (cetana), compassion (karuṇā), non-harm (ahiṃsā), and the interdependent relationship between the ruler, the Sangha, and the people, contrasting these with Western models grounded in institutional structures, legal rationality, and democratic conflict resolution. The findings suggest that while Western political science prioritizes procedural justice and structural arrangements, Buddhist political thought centers on ethical governance, moral restraint, and the cultivation of virtue as the foundation of political legitimacy. This comparative analysis contributes to broader debates in political theory, ethics, and cross-cultural governance by illuminating both convergences and tensions between Buddhist and Western political traditions.
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