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The Theory and Practice Integration of Buddhist Economic Thought with Modern Economics—Based on Several Traceable Cases
Buddhist economic principles can integrate with modern economics in theory and practice. It’s core ideas include compassion for all beings, the Middle Way, equality among sentient beings, sustainable development and so on. This paper which is based on Buddhist economic thought constructed a framework through systematic analysis of Buddhist economic thought's theoretical core and its alignment with modern economics. Its practical validation which conducted through some case studies demonstrated its effectiveness. This research demonstrated that the Buddhist economic thought supplement four critical limitations in modern economics. Firstly, it revised modern economics’ fundamental cognition. Secondly, the value orientation of welfare priority integrates the development model of growth supremacy. Thirdly, the symbiotic development model of circular economy transcends the modern economic competition and opposition. Fourthly, the concept of inclusive and balanced development dissolves the opposition between efficiency and fairness in modern economics. This analysis framework provided theoretical foundations for promoting global harmony, protecting ecosystems, narrowing wealth gaps, eliminating consumption distortions, and enhancing business ethics. Practically, the integration of Buddhist economic thought with ESG principles, the adaptability of policy tools to the Middle Way, and the spiritual resonance of community participation are the key factors influencing corporate compassionate operations, regulatory measures, and regional ecological co-construction. The convergence of Buddhist economic thought and modern economics offers theoretical support and actionable solutions for building a new modern economic system featuring "economic-social-ecological-spiritual" quadruple coordination.
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Supporting Agencies
- Funding: This research received no external funding.