Question

The Buddha holds that all human existence is suffering. Attachment (e.g. desires) causes suffering. The Buddha also holds that we can learn to have almost no attachments. By contrast, Xunzi suggests that we can never mitigate our attachments. Even if we cease (e.g. by practice) to be attached to something bad, we are still attached to something else. Who is right? Why does it matter?

(a) The Buddha is right; attachments can be overcome.
(b) Xunzi is right; attachments are unavoidable.
(c) Both are partially right.
(d) It doesn't matter; perspectives on attachment are subjective.

Answer 1

The Buddha and Xunzi have different views on attachments and suffering. The Buddha believes attachments can be overcome through the Eightfold Path, while Xunzi suggests attachments are unavoidable. Both perspectives have validity, and it matters because it helps us understand human nature and address suffering.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Buddha and Xunzi have differing views on the possibility of mitigating attachments and suffering. The Buddha holds that attachments can be overcome through practicing the Eightfold Path, which includes wisdom, ethical conduct, and meditation. He believes that by eliminating desires and attachments, one can achieve freedom from suffering. On the other hand, Xunzi suggests that attachments are unavoidable and even if we cease to be attached to something bad, we will still be attached to something else.

Both perspectives have some validity. The Buddha's teachings provide a practical path to reduce attachments and suffering, which has been followed by many Buddhists throughout history. However, Xunzi's viewpoint acknowledges the inherent nature of human desires and attachments, suggesting that complete liberation from attachments may not be achievable. Ultimately, the question of who is right is subjective and depends on one's own beliefs and experiences. It matters because understanding different perspectives on attachment helps us gain insights into human nature and the ways in which we can address suffering in our own lives.