Why do some Buddhists object to certain methods of contraception?

Many Buddhists believe life begins at conception. Methods thought to act after fertilisation, such as some coils, may be seen as taking life.

What does the Dalai Lama argue in The Natural World about family planning?

The Dalai Lama argues that a rising human population puts great pressure on the planet's resources. The Dalai Lama therefore supports birth control to protect the natural world.

Which methods of birth control does the Dalai Lama prefer?

The Dalai Lama favours non-violent methods that prevent conception. Methods that end a life once conceived are not acceptable to him.

How does intention affect a Buddhist view of contraception?

A couple who plan their family out of care for children and the planet act with good intention. Contraception used to allow harmful or selfish sex may create bad kamma.

Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies B 1RB0

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Buddhism: Marriage and the Family

Buddhist attitudes to contraception

3 things to know
Paper 1

Overview

What scripture says, preventing conception versus methods some object to, the Dalai Lama in The Natural World and the methods he prefers, intention, differing views, Humanists and situation ethics.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

How might a Buddhist respond to situation ethics and Humanist views on contraception?

Key term

What do Buddhist scriptures say about contraception?

Key term

Why do most Buddhists accept contraception that prevents conception?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What do Buddhist scriptures say about contraception?
Model answer
Buddhist scriptures say nothing directly about contraception. Most Buddhists therefore judge it by the First Precept and by intention.
2
Why do most Buddhists accept contraception that prevents conception?
Model answer
Contraception that stops conception does not destroy a life, so it does not break the First Precept. Condoms and the contraceptive pill are widely accepted.
3
Why do some Buddhists object to certain methods of contraception?
Model answer
Many Buddhists believe life begins at conception. Methods thought to act after fertilisation, such as some coils, may be seen as taking life.
4
What does the Dalai Lama argue in The Natural World about family planning?
Model answer
The Dalai Lama argues that a rising human population puts great pressure on the planet's resources. The Dalai Lama therefore supports birth control to protect the natural world.
5
Which methods of birth control does the Dalai Lama prefer?
Model answer
The Dalai Lama favours non-violent methods that prevent conception. Methods that end a life once conceived are not acceptable to him.
6
How does intention affect a Buddhist view of contraception?
Model answer
A couple who plan their family out of care for children and the planet act with good intention. Contraception used to allow harmful or selfish sex may create bad kamma.

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