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Buddhists’ views on evolution discusses the interaction betweenBuddhism and modern scientific theories ofevolution andcosmology.[1] Buddhism is generally accepting ofscientific explanations for the origin and development of life and theuniverse. This acceptance stems from two main attitudes: first, that cosmological questions are not central to the path of liberation, and second, that some earlyBuddhist texts, such as theAggañña Sutta, can be read as broadly compatible with evolutionary concepts.[2]
| Buddhist | 81% | |||
| Hindu | 80% | |||
| Jewish | 77% | |||
| Unaffiliated | 72% | |||
| Catholic | 58% | |||
| Orthodox | 54% | |||
| Mainline Protestant | 51% | |||
| Muslim | 45% | |||
| Hist. Black Protest. | 38% | |||
| Evang. Protestant | 24% | |||
| Mormon | 22% | |||
| Jehovah's Witnesses | 8% | |||
| Total U.S. population | 48% | |||
Buddhist doctrine generally does not conflict with scientific explanations of human or biological origins. Many Buddhist scholars and teachers view evolution as consistent with the principles of change and causality emphasized in Buddhist philosophy.[4]
In theAggañña Sutta, the 27th discourse of theDigha Nikaya in thePali Canon, theBuddha describes a long cyclic process of world contraction and expansion, in which beings evolve from luminous, mind-made forms into more material, earth-bound forms. Scholars interpret this allegorically, suggesting an early conceptualization of progressive transformation of life and environment.[5]
The story emphasizes moral and spiritual qualities over social class, illustrating that ethical conduct and wisdom define true value rather than birth or material status.[2]
Buddhism does not emphasize a creator deity, certain traditional cosmological narratives are interpreted literally by some adherents. These interpretations often focus on the cyclical nature of existence and the detailed descriptions of the universe found in Buddhist scriptures.
Buddhist cosmology presents a structured universe, including multiple realms of existence and the centralMount Meru. Texts such as theAggañña Sutta outline the origin of the world and society. Some practitioners interpret these narratives as literal accounts of the universe's structure and the origins of life.[citation needed]
The six realms of existence—gods, demigods, humans, animals, hungry ghosts, and hell beings—are central to Buddhist cosmology. While many view these realms metaphorically, some traditions interpret them as literal places where beings are reborn based on theirkarma.[6]
Some Buddhist groups that adhere to literal interpretations of cosmological narratives may reject evolutionary theory. They may view the detailed accounts of creation and the cyclical nature of the universe as incompatible with the concept of evolution, which suggests a gradual development of life forms over time.[7]
Literal interpretations of Buddhist cosmology raise questions about the nature of reality and the role of myth in religious practice. These discussions often revolve around the tension between traditional beliefs and modern scientific understandings of the universe.[8]
Buddhist teachings emphasizeimpermanence (anicca),dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda), andnon-self (anattā). These concepts align with the understanding that living forms arise, change, and cease due to interdependent causes.[9] Most Buddhists accept evolution as compatible with doctrine.[10]
Cosmological questions about the origin or eternity of the universe are listed among thefourteen unanswerable questions (avyākata), emphasizing the Buddha's pragmatic focus on alleviating suffering rather than speculative metaphysics.[11]
Historically, Buddhist scholars inSri Lanka,Myanmar, andTibet have engaged with emerging scientific thought. Early 20th-century reformers likeAnagarika Dharmapala emphasized that Buddhism's understanding of natural change is compatible with scientific observations.[12]
InThe Universe in a Single Atom: The Convergence of Science and Spirituality, the14th Dalai Lama supports evolution but expresses philosophical concerns about random mutation as a complete explanation:
From the Buddhist's perspective, the idea of these mutations being random events is deeply unsatisfying for a theory that purports to explain the origin of life.
Donald S. Lopez Jr. notes that Buddhist doctrines ofkarma andrebirth influence this perspective, suggesting that consciousness and ethical actions are integral to the unfolding of life.[13]
Albert Low, a Zen Buddhist teacher, opposes strictneo-Darwinism andselfish gene theory for being overly materialistic, advocating instead a form ofspiritual evolution where consciousness, ethics, and awareness develop alongside biological life.[14]
Buddhist engagement with evolution reinforces ethical responsibility toward all living beings. Recognizing the interdependence of life aligns with Buddhist precepts of compassion and non-harming. Many modern Buddhist environmentalists and scientists argue that understanding evolution supports conservation, empathy, and ecological awareness.[15]
Incountries with significant Buddhist populations,evolution is often taught alongside religious education without conflict.[16] Surveys suggest thatBuddhists show some of the highest acceptance rates of evolution among religious groups, highlighting compatibility between faith and scientific literacy.[17]
Buddhism discourages metaphysical speculation that does not lead to liberation. The parable of the poisoned arrow illustrates this:
"Suppose someone was hit by apoisoned arrow and his friends and relatives found a doctor able to remove the arrow. If this man were to say, 'I will not have this arrow taken out until I know who shot it, what kind of bow was used, and the material of the arrowhead,' he would die before these things were known."[18]
This pragmatic attitude is part of whyBuddhism generally accepts evolution without doctrinal conflict.[19]
Stephen T. Asma emphasizes that the Buddha largely avoided origin-related metaphysical speculation, focusing on empirical observation and the cessation of suffering:
The historical Buddha shunned metaphysical speculations [...] Most Buddhists take all this as an invitation to embrace the sciences.[20]
Buddhism’s generally positive attitude toward evolution has influenced science–religion dialogue, especially in education and environmental ethics.[21] The recognition ofinterdependence in both evolution andBuddhist philosophy supports compassion for all living beings and respect for ecological systems.[22]
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