Module 5: Religious and spiritual approaches to human happiness
  Lecture 11: Jain and Buddhist Philosophies

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISE

  • Collect more material on the life and teachings of Mahavir and write an essay on his approach to transcendence.

  • What is the importance of Buddhism in political history of India?

  • What are major divisions of Buddhism? To which division most Buddhists in India belong?

  • What are major works of Buddha?

  • What is Dr. Ambedkar’s approach to Buddhism and Buddha’s message?

  • What are the weaknesses of Buddhism as a social philosophy?

  • Why had Buddhism an appeal among intellectuals and philosophers worldwide?

  • Analyze the relationship between Jainism, Buddhism and humanism.

  • What is the relevance of Buddhism for values?

  • How do you respond to questions raised by Dr. Ambedkar on life and teachings of Buddha?