Is Buddhism a philosophy, psychology or a religion?

The Buddha’s teaching can be regarded as a philosophy in that it offers a comprehensive and logical view of reality, but it is not just a philosophy. Above all, Buddha dhamma is a practical system of mental development whereby the subtle truths of existence are realised through direct, personal experience. Because the practice leads to personal transformation, some people consider Buddhism to be a kind of psychology. However, the teaching actually becomes relevant from the point where people are already leading more or less stable lives and wish to examine their experience in more detail. The end result of practice - enlightenment - goes beyond the goals of both philosophy and psychology. It is the complete eradication of all craving, hatred and delusion, the permanent cessation of suffering. The Buddha maintained that enlightenment can be realised only through one’s own efforts. Buddhism, therefore, cannot rightly be called a religion of faith. It does, none the less, offer a ...  more