The Foundations of Buddhist Ethics and the Western Models

The essence of Buddhist teachings is based on the law of nature (Dharma) or ethical order, and Dharma is, then, linked with the laws governing the ethical practices (i.e. Karma). These two concepts, along with a number of other concepts, construct the foundations of Buddhist ethics. These concepts are equally utilized in all sects of Buddhism, yet, in different sects, different amount of emphasis is put on each of them. Meanwhile, the western Buddhists have also attempted to explain these Buddhist ethical concepts within the framework of western models.