A 2000-word (excluding bibliography) discussion paper based on the material used in your annotated bibliography will be due on June 12th by 5:00 pm. Your paper needs to use a standard 12-point font an

Topic

Integration of Buddhism and Politics in East Asia

A General Statement about the Topic

Buddhism is the main religion in the East Asian countries and as a result, it has influenced and shaped the politics of the East Asian countries.

Discussion and Justification of the Topic

Buddhism evolved into religion during the expansive civil war and great upheaval. In its earliest stages in the history of East Asia, Buddhism established itself as a political body that grew to rival the landowners and aristocracy as an independent force and an influential opponent that influenced politics and top leadership. Politically, economically, and ultimately in the battle, Buddhist organizations developed into a strong political body that influenced the principles of the court and governance execution especially in Japan (Dittrich, 2019).

As a religion of self-fulfillment and peace, Buddhist sects and temples continued to develop and transform from a political machine to a military force. This transformation happened to respond to the shifting class structure and also to defend the assets and status of Buddhists on the battlefield. This military capability further evolved with a certain sect engaging in a holy war based on beliefs. This resulted in a unique integration of war and religion that characterized the whole culture of the time. And so the emergence and development of Buddhism in East Asia greatly influenced the politics of this region even up to date (Dittrich, 2019).

The specific questions that will be answered are 1) how did Buddhism emerge in East Asia? 2) What contributed to its development in the East Asian region? 3) How has Buddhism shaped politics in East Asia? 4) How is the current political landscape in East Asia?

References

Dittrich, K. (2019). Buddhism, Business, and Red-Cross Diplomacy: Aline Mayrisch de Saint-Hubert’s Journeys to East Asia in the Interwar Period. In Fabricating Modern Societies: Education, Bodies, and Minds in the Age of Steel (pp. 79-107). Brill.