Date of Award
6-2007
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Comparative Religion
First Advisor
Dr. Stephen G. Covell
Second Advisor
Dr. Brian Wilson
Third Advisor
Dr. Carol Anderson
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Campus Only
Abstract
My research focused on the interpretation of "peace" in the Zen tradition and to what extent the tradition's adherents believe and participate in social action. The project first examines the relationship between the two primary definitions of "peace" used by Zen priests and practitioners: one being a tranquil "peace of mind" and the other being a peace between individual, groups and nations. All Zen adherents use the first definition. The second definition, although present, is not practiced by all in the Zen tradition and led to many debates throughout Zen's history. I examined these debates between the quietist and activist sides primarily through the lenses of how people in the Zen tradition view enlightenment, the primary goal of practice, and how they view meditation, the primary form of practice.
The project then focused on those believed active participation in the world to be a necessary part of the path, but whose opinions led to support of sexual or social discrimination, murder, and war.
The final part of the project showed Zen activist in Taiwan, Japan, and the United States whose activism had very positive impacts on the world. The final section also examined ways in which these efforts might be expanded in the future through analysis of various social structures.
Recommended Citation
Michon, Nathaniel C., "The Zen of World Peace: Exploring the Roots of Peace and Social Action in Zen" (2007). Masters Theses. 3755.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/3755