BUDDHIST METHODS FOR MANAGING ANGER: INTEGRATING BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY AND BUDDHIST SOCIOLOGY FOR A PEACEFUL SOCIETY

Abstract

Anger is a major cause of violence and social problems, often leading to physical harm and even loss of life, as in the recent incident where a food delivery rider was fatally assaulted. Such tragedies bring profound consequences not only to the victims and their families but also to society at large. Buddhism places significant emphasis on managing anger in order to prevent the suffering and harmful outcomes it generates. In Buddhist teachings, anger is regarded as an unwholesome root (akusala-mūla), arising from four primary causes: ignorance (avijjā), craving (taṇhā), sensory contact (phassa), and attachment to self (attā). The effects of anger manifest through harmful actions of body, speech, and mind, undermining the well-being of both oneself and others.

To counteract anger, Buddhism offers several key principles: mindfulness (sati), which enables recognition of angry states; patience (khanti), or endurance in the face of provocation; loving-kindness (mettā), which cultivates goodwill toward oneself and others; non-hatred (adosa), the refusal to harbor resentment; and wisdom (paññā), which discerns the causes and consequences of anger. Practical methods include observing and acknowledging the arising of anger, restraining harmful bodily and verbal expressions, reframing one’s perspective toward challenging situations, cultivating compassion and kindness, and engaging in continuous mindfulness and meditation practice.

Applying these teachings can effectively reduce anger and its associated suffering, fostering inner peace and harmony. Ultimately, this leads to a calmer life and sustainable, compassionate coexistence with others.