Bangkok – As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape global society, Buddhist scholars are revisiting the teachings of the Kukkuravatika Sutta from the Majjhima Nikāya to explore ethical principles that can contribute to peacebuilding and responsible technological development in the modern world.
The Kukkuravatika Sutta recounts an encounter between the Buddha and two ascetics who practiced severe austerities by imitating the behavior of dogs and cattle. They believed that such practices would lead them to a fortunate rebirth and spiritual advancement.
The Buddha, however, explained that actions rooted in wrong view cannot produce genuinely beneficial results, regardless of the intensity of one's effort. He taught that those who completely identify with and imitate animals based on such beliefs may be reborn in the animal realm, while those who cling strongly to false views may face even more unfortunate consequences.
The Buddha further expounded the doctrine of the Four Kinds of Karma: dark karma leading to suffering, bright karma leading to happiness, mixed karma producing mixed results, and karma that leads to the ending of karma and liberation. Through this teaching, he clarified the true relationship between cause and effect and emphasized that wisdom and right understanding are more important than external forms of practice.
Experts in technology ethics observe that the message of the Kukkuravatika Sutta is highly relevant to the AI era. In a world increasingly influenced by algorithms, misinformation, and rapidly spreading digital trends, people may follow ideas or technologies uncritically without understanding their consequences. Such behavior parallels the misguided practices described in the sutta.
According to scholars, lasting peace in the AI age requires not only technological advancement but also ethical wisdom, critical thinking, and responsible decision-making. Individuals and institutions must carefully evaluate information, understand the consequences of their actions, and ensure that technology serves the well-being of humanity.
The conclusion of the Kukkuravatika Sutta demonstrates the transformative power of wisdom. After listening to the Buddha’s teachings, the ascetics abandoned their former beliefs, took refuge in the Triple Gem, and advanced on the path of spiritual realization.
As humanity enters a future increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, the Kukkuravatika Sutta reminds us that genuine peace is not achieved through blind imitation, but through wisdom, responsibility, and a clear understanding of cause and effect.
ไม่มีความคิดเห็น:
แสดงความคิดเห็น