Is compassionate killing really psychologically impossible, as the Abhidhammaclaims? Previously I discussed a Vinayacase that seemed to show the contrary. Reviewing my conclusions in the light of commentarial literature, Rupert Gethin disagreed and restated the Abhidhammaposition that killing can never be motivated by compassion. This paper supports my original conclusions and argues further that the Vinayacase reveals underlying problems with the Abhidhamma’s“psychological ethics.”
目次
[Table of Contents]
Introduction p.238 Motive and Intent p.48
I. The Vinaya Case p.50 The death of the sick monk The commentarial exegesis Reflections on the commentary Corroborating evidence
II. Why is Compassionate Killing Impossible? p.58 Reason 1: death presents a special opportunity Reason 2: refusal to face the reality of suffering Reason 3: self-deception Reason 4: the alternative approach Reason 5: a psycho-ethical puzzle
III. Abhidhammam Action Theory p.67 Vinaya v Abhidhamma Motivation
IV. The Classification of Actions “By Root” (CBR) p.72 An anomaly: harsh speech Mahāyāna ethics
