Environmental ethics in Pali literature: a study

Abstract

This research article shows the solutions to the environmental problems faced by the present generation, based on the ancient lifestyle as depicted in the Theravāda Pali literature, wherein the mutual interdependence of the world has been described. The article says that the various components of the environment are mutually dependent. Environment awareness is not a recent phenomenon. The vital element of the Indian culture is its unity with the mother nature. The relationship between culture and ecology was an integral part of ancient Indian society. Environmental ethics has always been upheld as an inherent part of Buddhist literature. Man and nature relationship was at the centre of the vision of our ancestors, they stressed on the harmonious of human living with the mother nature. India is one of the oldest civilisations in the world with its rich cultural heritage. Today people enjoy natural resources because of the wise resource management and allocation strategies adhered by their ancestors. We need to note that available natural resources are limited, and the exploitation of these resources is causing the environmental crisis. Pali literature shows the ancient environmental friendly way of life, lead by the Buddha and his followers.