How can one apply the teachings of Buddhism to American society today?
Answer . Hi Kelly, First let me give you a little synopsis on the foundation of Buddhism. Technically speaking Buddhism is not a religion; it is not theistic and does not have an external means of salvation. In Buddhism ones awakening and redemption is all through self-effort alone. Historically speaking Buddhism came about because of the life of the Prince Siddhartha, who when coming upon suffering, sickness and death, wanted to find an answer to the cause of suffering for humans. He tried to lose himself in the pleasures of the world but found no solace. He then became an ascetic and this too yielded no answers. After many years of searching and frustration he finally sat under a tree and declared that he would not move until he understood the solution. According to legend, several days later as he glanced up at the morning star his mind became clear and he was enlightened. From this he postulated the Four Noble truths of Buddhism: Life (human) is dukkha . (Suffering, with no apparen