In Buddhist thought, desire and craving (such as ambition and desire) are things best enjoyed in detached manner. In other means, it is best not to let such things consume and control you.
In American thought, a person with all consuming ambition is considered positive and that person would be considered driven.
Your thoughts?
2007-08-10 10:24:56 · 5 answers · asked by PeguinBackPacker 5 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
My reply to giggly.
When the monk asked for change, the vendor replied that change comes from within.
2007-08-10 10:53:51 · update #1
In Buddhism, it is ok to have ambition or desire. The importance is not to cling to, or become attached to it. It is the dwelling on these things that causes suffering.
Your description of American thought only applies to some, it is far to broad a statement.
2007-08-11 13:07:28 · answer #1 · answered by MarkS 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have considered what you say so many times. I also think that there is a contrast, and its at the root of peoples motivation in our society.
Particularly in the workplace. The big ego type are the ones who often get ahead, and the modest ones get nudged out. Not in every workplace, not all the time.
The best that I have learned to do is to play the game. Sometimes I have to tut my own horn, or set someone up to thank me. Most of the time, I don't make a big deal out of myself. With this approach, the people will need time to appreciate me, but it comes from out of their own recognition.I'm still trying to learn when to brag a bit and when to just let it be. Its a work in progress.
2007-08-10 19:41:43 · answer #2 · answered by Teaim 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I totally agree with you. However, I think it is important to remember that there are some Americans who do not feel that way, although I would definitely say we are in the minority. I personally think the Buddhist philosophy is very beautiful, and I wish that more people - wherever they are in the world - would practice lovingkindness, as is the true Buddhist way.
2007-08-10 17:33:32 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
totally agree.
but these two thoughts are two extremes. i think buddhism is extreme at least the way monks practice it. buddhists would not have founded america, driven scientific and economic growth. these are important things which have to be considered too.
2007-08-10 17:39:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
"Zen Sausage"
Said the Buddhist to the hot dog vendor: "Make me one with everything."
2007-08-10 17:32:54 · answer #5 · answered by Giggly Giraffe 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋