Episode Details

Join Kenneth and political theorist Kevin as they unpack Kevin's research on "Buddhist Political Theory." Was Thich Tri Quang a peace-loving monk, a communist agent, or, as Time Magazine once called him, a "Vietnamese Machiavelli"?

We explore the uncomfortable contradictions of history: Why would a Buddhist monk advocate for a high-intensity American bombing campaign? How did his belief in spiritual "flourishing" drive him to participate in the downfall of the Ngo Dinh Diem government? And why did the American media find him so elusive?

In this episode, we discuss:

Beyond the Orange Robe: The difference between "socially engaged Buddhism" and the anti-political traditions of the past.

The "Machiavellian" Monk: Applying the philosophy of The Prince to the strategy of the 1960s Buddhist uprising.

Catholic vs. Buddhist Tension: Kenneth and Kevin reflect on their own Catholic upbringings and the "tribalism" that defined their parents' views on Buddhism.

Spiritual Politics: The fascinating argument that Buddhism is "anti-political" yet uses politics as a necessary tool to create conditions for enlightenment.

Whether you are a student of history or simply curious about the intersection of faith and power, this episode offers a new lens through which to view the struggle for the soul of South Vietnam.

https://kyotoreview.org/issue-35/thich-tri-quang-the-machiavellianism-of-buddhist-political-theory/

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth Nguyen

Visit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!