Author Affiliation: Ph.D. Candidate, Arizona State University=美國亞利桑那大學宗教系博士候選人
關鍵詞
Buddhism and ecology; environmental rhetoric; Master Sheng Yen; Chinese Buddhism; 心靈環保; 佛教; 生態學; 環保修辭
摘要
What is the connection between the language of sustainability and the implementation of sustainable practices? The rhetoric of sustainability and environmental concern are both rich in metaphors and vision, but does this richness translate into significant sustainability practices? Does rhetoric hold the key to the success of sustainability? This paper analyzes the concept and teaching of ‘spiritual environmentalism’ (xinling huanbao心靈環保) proposed by the late Chan monk Sheng Yen and argues that the term is part of a rhetorical strategy aimed at providing a framework for integrating humanistic Buddhist practice, environmentalism, and Sheng Yen’s particular emphasis on Chan practice. In order to extend the implications of this rhetorical aspect of the term, I will suggest how ‘spiritual environmentalism’ and the ‘fourfold environmentalism’ (sizhong huanbao 四種環保) can be situated within the context of the field of Buddhist environmentalism. I will also provide a comparison between Sheng Yen’s use of language and the way Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess develops his ‘ecophilosophy’ (commonly known as deep ecology). This comparison will allow us to clarify the way in which Sheng Yen’s discourse of environmental concern contributes to and can engage with contemporary environmental philosophy.
