Analytical Study of Educational Philosophy in Buddhism

Abstract

Education plays a vital role in human and social development, serving as a process through which individuals understand themselves, others, and transmit knowledge to future generations. Western educational philosophy is typically categorized into five major schools—Essentialism, Perennialism, Progressivism, Reconstructionism, and Existentialism—each with distinct aims and methods. In contrast, Buddhist education aims at the complete cessation of suffering through the Noble Eightfold Path, which is grounded in seven essential preparatory factors: good friendship (kalyāṇamitta-sampadā), moral discipline (sīla-sampadā), zeal (chanda-sampadā), purposeful benefit (attha-sampadā), right view (diṭṭhi-sampadā), heedfulness (appamāda-sampadā), and wise reflection (yoniso-manasikāra). The findings indicate the following correspondences: Essentialism aligns with kalyāṇamitta-sampadā as guidance derived from trustworthy sources; Perennialism corresponds to sīla-sampadā through disciplined practice grounded in truth; Progressivism relates to chanda-sampadā in its emphasis on adapting to changing contexts, whereas a complete rejection of prior knowledge reflects Reconstructionism. Attha-sampadā parallels Existentialism in its focus on individual meaning and values. Meanwhile, diṭṭhi-sampadā, appamāda-sampadā, and yoniso-manasikāra represent uniquely Buddhist epistemic contributions.