The Ethics of Enlightened Self-Interest – Ep. 24

In this episode, Professor Thurman discusses Buddhist ethics, which he translates as the ten-fold path of skillful and unskillful action. Instead of right and wrong, Professor Thurman urges us to consider ethical behavior as any action that helps us evolve on the path toward enlightenment.

Helping others is the heart of skillful action, but it’s also in our best interest. When we realize we are all stuck in this universe together, lifetime after lifetime, it is in our enlightened self-interest to help all beings be happy and free from suffering. It is also the path to our own happiness and freedom.

This podcast is an excerpt from a lecture given on July 3, 2015 at Menla Retreat Center, as part of a retreat called “Shakyamuni Buddha’s Inner Sciences & His Medicine Buddha Healing Science” with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang & Robert A.F. Thurman.

This podcast is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.