Essay Questions

Is Dalai Lama concluding that non-vehemence is the factual track to coexistence among human beings?

According to Lama, the best way to understand the world and the human race is to accept the way things are. Lama thinks that forcing people to live according to particular attributes constitutes violence. Consequently, according to their traditions, people should observe the virtues they believe in without being coerced by any authority. Similarly, Lama argues that people know what is good and evil. Therefore, human beings choose what they want as long as they do not infringe on others' rights.

What is the critical desire for the human soul, according to the author?

The author argues that each human soul yearns for eschatological happiness, which is not incidental. Lama explores religion's role in enhancing human happiness and realizes that faith is the actual quest for contentment. Religion plays a critical role in aiding people to have peace of mind. Despite the many challenges people face on earth, they are assured of a happy life after death. Therefore, the critical desire for any human soul is happiness.

How does the author show that ethical happiness is the ultimate good?

Lama uses the symbol of karma to illustrate that ethical happiness is the ultimate good in society. For instance, Lama argues evil deeds are practically paid for by evil. Therefore, a wrong person should not expect to harm others and get excellent treatment from society. The consequences of evil actions are severe, and people must learn to do good. On that note, Lama concludes that the ultimate end of good people is contentment because they get what they deserve in society.