Historical and Cultural Dimensions of Buddhist Ethics in Moral and Lifestyle Education for Vietnamese Students

Abstract

The contemporary knowledge society provides significant opportunities for human advancement but also presents serious challenges, particularly the erosion of moral values and lifestyle among younger generations. In Vietnam, where students represent the future of national development, this issue has become increasingly urgent. Responding to UNESCO’s four pillars of education, namely learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to be, Vietnam must strengthen its moral foundation by integrating traditional cultural values with modern educational practices. Buddhism, introduced to Vietnam nearly two millennia ago, has profoundly influenced Vietnamese thought, morality, and lifestyle. Its philosophy of compassion, altruism, and equality resonates deeply with the nation’s cultural identity and offers a sustainable framework for moral education. By emphasizing empathy, ethical conduct, and social responsibility, Buddhist ideas can complement contemporary educational goals, fostering holistic personality development and preparing students to navigate complex social realities.