Dr. Goutam Kumar Ghosh
The contemporary globalized world is witnessing the tragic consequences of rapid material advancement, which is continuously challenging human well-being. Despite its unprecedented scientific and technological progress, modern civilization stands at the crossroads of war tensions, terrorism, social violence, economic inequality, and environmental degradation. The resurgence of aggressive nationalism, exploitation, and intolerance reflects the world has lost its ethical equilibrium and moral growth.
In this troubled scenario, the ethical teachings of Gautam Buddha offer a profound moral compass to reconstruct society on the basis of compassion, mindfulness, and peace. Buddha’s ethical philosophy- centered on non-violence (ahiṃsa), compassion (karuṇa), moral conduct (sila) and mindfulness (sati)-aims not only at personal liberation from suffering but also at fostering collective harmony within the community. It provides a pathway to overcome the deep-rooted causes of human suffering (dukkha), known as the Three Poisons or Three Unwholesome Roots: lobha (greed), dosa (hatred), and moha (ignorance)
This paper, therefore, seeks to explore how Buddha’s moral vision can serve as a strong philosophical foundation for rebuilding modern society. By interpreting his teachings in the light of contemporary moral crises, it attempts to demonstrate their relevance in promoting justice, social harmony and sustainable progress. The discussion will focus on how the principles of inner transformation and ethical living can inspire both individual awakening and societal reform, providing a holistic framework for reconstructing modern civilization on the enduring values of morality, compassion, and human well-being.
Keywords: Buddhist Ethics, Modern Civilization, Moral Reconstruction, Social Harmony
