ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the foundations of Buddhist ethics reviewing basic teachings such as Dharma and karma, the perceptual requirements for laity and monks, key virtues such as generosity (dāna), non-harming (ahiṃsā), and compassion (karuṇā). It goes on to trace the development of ethics in Mahāyāna Buddhism, making reference to the notion of ‘skillful means’ (upāya-kauśalya) and Tantric practice and concludes with a discussion of Western perspectives on Buddhist ethics.
