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Describe what is meant by conventional warfare - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
Describe what is meant by conventional warfare. Conventional warfare refers to warfare in which two or more armies are engaged against each other in a particular pl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe what is meant by conventional warfare - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe what is meant by conventional warfare.
Answer
Conventional warfare refers to warfare in which two or more armies are engaged against each other in a particular place. This type of warfare typically involves the use of conventional weapons such as firearms, artillery, and tanks, rather than unconventional methods such as guerilla tactics or terrorism. In conventional warfare, engagements are usually bound by international laws of warfare, wherein civilians are generally not directly involved.
Step 2
Compare different Buddhist attitudes to using violence to achieve social justice.
Answer
Buddhism encompasses a variety of beliefs regarding violence and social justice. On one side, many Buddhists hold that violence is fundamentally at odds with the core teachings surrounding compassion and non-harming (ahimsa). The First Precept instructs adherents to abstain from harming living beings. This perspective emphasizes peaceful and non-violent methods for addressing social injustices, similar to the teachings of figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
On the opposite end, some Buddhists advocate for a different approach that recognizes the complexity of situations involving injustice. For example, there are instances in Buddhist history, such as the Chinese occupation of Tibet, where monks have resorted to violence as a means of resistance. The rationale is often rooted in the belief that defending Buddhist teachings and the community can justify the use of force in certain extreme scenarios.
It is essential to note that these approaches can vary significantly among different traditions and contexts within Buddhism. Therefore, the wider Buddhist community may adopt differing stances on using violence based on circumstances, educational backgrounds, and interpretations of sacred texts.
Step 3
"It is wrong for a Buddhist to join the army."
Answer
This statement highlights an ethical dilemma within Buddhism regarding militarism and the act of killing. Primarily, Buddhism encompasses teachings that advocate for non-violence and compassion toward all living beings. The First Precept is particularly relevant here, as it instructs followers to abstain from harming any living creature.
From the perspective of Right Livelihood, a key component of the Noble Eightfold Path, enlisting in the military could be seen as contradictory to one's spiritual practice. Joining the army often involves participating in violence and potentially taking lives, which severely conflicts with Buddhist teachings.
However, some argue that context matters. For instance, if a Buddhist joins the military with the intent to protect their community or country, some may view this as a morally permissible action under certain circumstances. Ultimately, it is crucial for individuals to reflect on their motivations and the impacts of their actions, as each Buddhist must weigh these ethical considerations for themselves.