Disclaimer: Political Buddha is a monthly diary series exploring how Buddhist philosophy may be used to become a more effective voter, political commentator (or blogger) or progressive activist—without sacrificing either ones own Buddhist principles or political beliefs. The ideas expressed in this series are a collection of my own research/experiences and are not intended to proselytize or to condemn, call out, or criticize anyone at Daily Kos or any other blog or Internet site. Your mileage, both as a Buddhist and as a politico, may vary.A glossary of Buddhist terms used in this series may be found here.
During the 2007 anti-government demonstrations in Burma (Myanmar) thousands of Buddhist monks joined students and political activists in the streets to protest the country’s increasing economic crisis and the corruption of the ruling military junta they believed was at least partially responsible. During this (misnamed1) Saffron Revolution, many co-workers, friends and family asked me—as their “resident Buddhist” and political junkie—the same question: Should Buddhists, who seek detachment and the Middle Way, even get involved in politics?
According to Buddhist history and teachings, I believe the short answer is “Yes”. But the reason why I believed this is a little more complicated.