Buddhist Ahimsa and Modern Peace Theory: A Comparative and Critical Analysis

Abstract

This study examines the conceptual similarities, philosophical differences, and current applicability of Buddhist ahimsa and contemporary peace theory through a comparative and critical analysis. Through ideas like negative and positive peace, structural violence, and conflict transformation, modern peace theory has greatly broadened the analytical scope of peace, yet it frequently stays rooted in institutional and systemic frameworks, as I contend in this paper. By focusing on intentionality, compassion (karuṇā), interdependence (pratītyasamutpāda), and the elimination of greed, anger, and illusion as the causes of violence, Buddhist ahimsa, on the other hand, places peace within the ethical reform of the individual. This paper shows that while both traditions diverge in their ontological underpinnings and normative priorities, they converge in their multifaceted understanding of peace as more than the mere absence of war through a critical engagement with important peace theorists and Buddhist philosophical sources. I argue that by bringing structural reform and moral and psychological change together, an integrative discussion between these viewpoints enhances peace studies. This synthesis provides a comprehensive paradigm of peace that is morally sound, socially transformative, and globally applicable in tackling today’s global issues, such as armed conflict, ecological crises, inequality, and ideological polarization. In the end, by positioning Buddhist non-violence as a significant and important participant in contemporary peace discourse, this work helps to broaden the theoretical bounds of peace research.