India and the Culture of Peace: Beyond Ethnic, Religious, and Other Conflicts

Abstract

Bhawuk discusses the general state of peace existent in India and details the contributory cultural factors. Recognition of over two thousand represented ethnic groups, hundreds of languages, and diverse religions practiced reveals a unique continuing tradition of harmony. Proposed mechanisms of the conceptual framework termed General and Complete Peace are utilized to explain serenity in India and offer hope for engendering peaceful coexistence in other regions. Exploration of cultural beliefs reveals significant importance placed on values of individual peace and care for others. Discussion of various spiritual texts provides additional insight into acceptance of contradiction and impermanence, which are viewed as contributing to inclusion. The value placed on dialog that permeates spiritual traditions provides evidence of understanding and appreciation of others. Further recognition of spiritual beliefs elucidates an unusual acceptance of various forms of religious practice as leading to the same God. In fact, the author points out that people from different religions may revere the same saints. In describing current conflicts, Bhawuk notes the existence of the caste system which many credit with the existing conflicts; however, he iterates that this was historically functional in society. Delineation of study results implicates economic and political factors in local, minimally violent conflicts, although statistics are cited which show that these are escalating in specific regions. Religious conflicts are also explored, revealing the catalyst of conversion to Christianity as a major factor. Bhawuk describes peace as a natural state, the absence of which begins at the individual and interpersonal levels. Results of a cited study provide insight into the need for compassion to reduce differences and promote humanitarian efforts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)