Various forms of compelled identification, oppositional stances, and the like are invisible shackles that we humans impose upon ourselves and others.

Author: Tao Qing Hsu; Hsu,Tao Qing 

Our choice between binary opposition and non-opposition leads to different perspectives in our thinking, debate, judgment, and decisions, as well as different behaviors and attitudes in our interactions with others. For example, astronauts on the moon, looking down at Earth from its perspective, saw that all races and species on Earth were one.

In other words, so-called forced national identity on Earth, or forced ethnic, political, religious, or cultural identities, are invisible shackles that we humans impose on ourselves and others. Not content with self-imposed constraints, we also use various means to bind others. These shackles are even imposed by cunning and manipulative individuals for their own selfish gain, used to manipulate the world. If we are wise enough, we will know how to break free from these shackles and avoid being manipulated by those with ulterior motives.

At the same time, we can stand at a higher level and think about problems and treat others with a more sophisticated attitude. Of course, the protection, management, and maintenance of national borders are necessary, just as important as the security and management of our own residences. However, we will not hate or be hostile to others, disagree with them, or manipulate them under any pretext simply because we live there. We will only take precautions against malicious aggressors, but we will not necessarily hate, be hostile to, or harm them.

Why does Buddhism not speak of national or ethnic greatness?

Author: Hsu,Tao Qing; Tao Qing Hsu

Buddhism does not advocate for the greatness of a nation or an ethnic group; why is that? The concept of "national greatness" implies its opposite—national insignificance—and the same logic applies to ethnicity. This mindset fosters an adversarial relationship, easily leading to psychological imbalance and triggering conflict between the two sides—specifically, a clash between arrogance and feelings of inferiority.

While leaders may seek to project confidence by championing national greatness, they often—psychologically and in terms of breadth of spirit—fall into a state of arrogance and hubris born of competition and opposition. This narrows one's thinking and capacity of mind, thereby distorting judgments and decisions regarding events and world affairs, ultimately steering the situation toward conflict.

Therefore, understanding Buddhism and psychology can elevate our awareness, teaching us to respect others and coexist harmoniously, rather than using aggressive posturing or coercion to demand that others accept principles established for our own self-interest.

To understand Buddhism more deeply: all sentient beings possess the Buddha-nature and are Buddhas-to-be. Therefore, in essence—within the pure and equal nature of emptiness—all sentient beings are completely equal. No one is superior, and no one is inferior. Grasping this, we dare not harbor arrogance or conceit, nor do we dare look down upon any sentient being. We dare not be arrogant toward any ethnic group, nor do we dare slight any people; for the people of every nation in the world are sentient beings who possess the Buddha-nature and are Buddhas-to-be.

When we hold this perspective, our approach to viewing and handling matters changes, as does the trajectory of the outcomes. Naturally, the course, process, and ultimate result of our own lives will also differ significantly. In short, this represents the distinction between unwholesome and wholesome causes and conditions, unwholesome and wholesome karma, and unwholesome and wholesome consequences.