Buddhist Compassion in Action: Shared Responsibility for Human Development

Abstract

Buddhism naturally evokes ideas of human welfare, mutual respect, and compassion. The concept of shared responsibility in Buddhist thought extends beyond individual action, emphasizing collective efforts that transcend national, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. It presents a model where compassion is not merely an internal sentiment but is actively expressed through social engagement. This article explores Buddhist compassion in action and its relevance to human development, highlighting core Buddhist principles such as the Four Noble Truths, Dependent Origination, the Noble Eightfold Path, and the Bodhisattva ideal. These teachings offer a framework for addressing contemporary challenges, including poverty, inequality, social justice, environmental sustainability, and mental health.