After Ven. Dr. K. Sri Dhammananda initial background presentation on the doctrinal aspects, an interesting perspective is presented by Ven. Dr. H. Gunaratana as to whether Buddhism as a whole is a pessimistic religion. Ven Wimala further illucidates with an analysis into the psychological aspects in relation to Buddhism.
These Venerables are all distinguished Buddhist scholars and have worked indefatigably in the service of this noble religion for many years in this country as well as in other parts of the world.
This Q&A is part of a presentation held in 1997 at the Buddhist Missionary Society, KL.
[flv]http://assets4.dhammikaweb.com/uploads/2011/08/Is-Buddhism-a-pessimistic-or-optimistic-religion.flv[/flv]
1 comments
i read and practice buddhism to the best of my ability. however, i do not know nearly as much as these buddhist scholars but in my own opinion i feel that buddhism is an optomistic belief system. its about perception and i see my path as being very pleasant.