Abstract:
The objectives of this research were to study the relationship between moral goodness and knowledge according to Buddhism, and to study the ideas of Phra Dhammapitaka (P.A. Payutto) concerning the Thai philosophy of education from the perspective of Buddhist ethics and education. The research results relating to the first objective were as follows. According to Buddhism, knowledge and moral goodness are interconnected. On the one hand, in developing different levels of knowledge, an indispensable element is the Right View. The final discovery of the Truth leads to the moral ideal. On the other hand, when people live up to virtues such as being diligent in the right actions, enthusiastic,
persistent, patient, prudent, and logical in learning, they eventually discover the Truth. The more moral purity one cultivates, the closer to the Truth one approaches. However, according to Buddhism, the priority is on the quest for the knowledge of the Truth whose prescribed path, Sikkhatayya, comprises morality as one of the first aims along with the other elements of concentration and contemplation. The path is by self training which dictates an inseparable practice of learning and moral cultivation. Therefore, it can be seen that Buddhist ethics are a part of the process of enlightenment. The research results relating to the second objective were as follows. According to Phra Dhammapitaka (P.A. Payutto), in metaphysical terms human beings have the potential to access Reality and attain the Truth. In epistemological terms, the access is possible through the right education based on the Right View. Sikkhatayya is the way of self-education by practicing the Noble Eightfold Path. In terms of educational method, two factors need to be considered. The outer factor is Paratoghosa, the words of others; the inner factor is Yonisomanasikara, analytical reflection. The right education must be in accordance with Sikkhatayya and the Noble Eightfold Path. The methods fit in with the highest aim of benefiting students lives. This is the basis for designing the curriculum, instructional methods, and teachers and students roles."