What do Buddhists think about prejudice and discrimination?

Answer 1

Given the Buddhist position on the Caste System the answer should be clear. Buddhists teach compassion. Even as a bigot is acting hostile, with his thoughts and actions he is increasing suffering for himself and others. This attackers actions though are very sad, because he is trapped in a behavior of harming others and self-harm. Like a sadomasochist he enjoys and is thrilled by hurting himself and others.

However, some hope still remains. Individuals that behave this way can still on rare occasion become enlightened if they are confronted with an example of compassion.

Answer 2

Its down right wrong as it breaks the teaching of Ahimsa; to hurt (physically/mentally) another living being. Also they believe everyone is equal as they can all achieve enlighenment so racism should not exist as this promotes inequality.

Answer 3

The closest equivalent to what we now popularly call prejudice and discrimination could be found in the caste system in India. In the Buddha's time, it had not yet solidified to the same level that it developed later. Nevertheless, there were people who believed that those of the Brahmin and other high castes were of noble birth. The Buddha taught that it is not birth that makes one noble, but rather leading a noble life.

Answer 4

Buddhism takes no specific point of view on discrimination, it does however indicate that compassion towards all sentient beings is a desirable personality trait. One cannot both be compassionate towards and discriminate against another person.

Answer 5

Buddhists dont like racism beacuse its bad and horrble.