Elementary Aspects of Buddhist Political Theory

Piyasena Dissanayake
Buddhist Political Theory

"The account of the Vajjian Republic in the Maha Parinibbana Sutta is important for two reasons. On the one hand it gives a comprehensive account of the general principles and policies of a good Republican Government, while on the other, it points out the ambitious and expansionist character of the monarchs…..The property in the Sangha organization was owned in common and was shared by members of the Order according to each individual member’s needs. Socially too, every member of the Sangha enjoyed equal rights and everyone was equal before the Vinaya (Law of Discipline)."