Management concepts implicit in the buddhist culture
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Date
2004-06-30
Authors
Perera, D. I. I. Gunathilaka
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya
Abstract
With the increasing popularity and relevance to human life, Management has become one of the most systematic and refined subjects today. The most recent trend, however, is turning to ancient wisdom for further enlightenment towards better management. The managerial wisdom contained in Buddhism, we think, may in this regard, be more than of theoretical interest to modern managers.The Buddhist litera- ture and the History of Buddhist culture have much to offer in relation to personal, environmental, political, economic, Communication spiritual and Time management etc... The Buddhist sangha is an excellent example for any manager. The Bud- dha, it appears has organised the Buddhist monks in such a systematic way that they depict an extremely democratic, socialist, spiritually rich and united body of people committed to higher goals of life. One may find the most modern and sophisticated concepts of management plus much more matured and refined philosophy of com- muned life within the Buddhist Vinaya. The Buddhists have presented a well balanced policy of resource manage- ment. Avoiding unnecessary waste of resources and putting them into maximum use, they have established themselves as the wisest conservationists of the ancient world. They have even shown the meaning of sharing limited resources for the benefit of many. The interest shown by the Buddhists in conserving the natural environment is specially commendable. History tells us that societies where Buddhist values were in practice were living examples of such excellent conservation policies. The contribu- tion made by the Buddhists to political and economic management also deserve spe- cial appreciation. The Buddhist sutras are as a matter of fact source material for well balanced managerial concepts. An attempt to recognise and appraise managerial concepts contained in the Buddhist tradition, we affirm, can greatly enrich both managerial thinking and practice of modern man.
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Keywords
Buddhism , Management