Philosophy 240: Essay Topics 3

Using examples, explain as best you can what Lao Tzu means by “Tao.”  How does Tao relate to nature?  Do you believe that finding Tao will result in happiness?  Why or why not?  Do you believe that attaining Tao is a realistic possibility?

Describe the Buddhist conception of reality, especially in relation to the individual mind and the need for discipline.  Where do you think Nirvana is located?  What implications does this have regarding social responsibility and the possibility of forgiveness?

There seems to be a tension between the Buddhist acceptance of all and the more typically Western attitude of a clear-cut line between good and evil.  How is Seung Sahn’s anecdote of “dropping ashes on the Buddha” supposed to show this?  How might you respond to a similar situation?  What benefits and problems do you see with the Buddhist approach?