Buddhism and Its Values and Roles

Abstract

Buddhism is a philosophical and ethical system that emphasizes the cultivation of individual values and social responsibility to achieve harmony between personal life and communal well-being. This study explores key Buddhist principles—including the Four Noble Truths, the Threefold Training, the Four Divine Abidings (Brahmavihāra), and the Four Means of Sustenance (Saṅgahavatthu)—to illustrate how they foster intrinsic values such as compassion, honesty, and kindness while guiding individuals in fulfilling their societal roles.

Findings indicate that Buddhist teachings not only promote spiritual growth but also enhance mental, ethical, and intellectual dimensions of life. Observing moral precepts cultivates social harmony, mindfulness practices enhance awareness and emotional resilience, and wisdom-based discernment supports rational decision-making. Moreover, the study highlights how these values help address contemporary challenges such as stress, interpersonal conflict, and the erosion of ethical foundations in consumer-driven societies. The results suggest that Buddhist principles offer practical frameworks for self-improvement and sustainable community development by integrating knowledge and ethical wisdom into daily actions. The study concludes that Buddhism serves as a vital tool for balancing personal development with social duties, particularly in contexts that require ethical integrity, social cohesion, and sustainable progress. This research thus proposes the application of Buddhist teachings as a means to enhance quality of life and foster well-being in the modern world.