Understanding Hinduism

Paper Summary:

This paper focuses on the original values and traditions of Hinduism as well as the flexibility found in this religion which has spawned numerous sects which include Buddhism, the Rama-Krishna movement and Brahmo Samaj. Hinduism offers a unique liberalism that allows followers to remain loyal even when rejecting one or more of its tenets. The writer of this paper discusses how Western thought has stressed the need for social reform in countries such as India and Cambodia. Like Hinduism, Buddhism also needs to address the encroachments of Western civilization. This paper examines how communist-led countries such as Indochina and Cambodia have abolished Hinduism entirely. As both Hinduism as Buddhism stem from the same roots, both faiths continue to grow and face complex challenges caused by an increasingly global society where international interdependence is essential.

From the Paper:

"Western thought has also influenced the calls for social reform in India. Among the most problematic issues is that of the caste system. Some opponents of this social structure have opted to withdraw into monasticism, while others have chosen the more productive option for lasting change. The introduction of such modern developments as public developments as public transportation and fast-food restaurants has led to a practical relaxation of the prohibition against social contact between separate castes. More dramatic have been affirmative action measures towards outcastes or "backward castes," with such policies advocated by the former British administration, Mahatma Gandhi, and recent political policy. Other practices which have fallen victim to social reforms include child marriage and encouraged population growth."

More papers on Understanding Hinduism:

• Essay # 42929 : "Hinduism and the Bhagavad Gita"
• Comparison Essay # 42108 : "Hinduism and Judaism"
• Analytical Essay # 22931 : "Parallels Between Christianity and Hinduism"

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