Kouvara, Asimina

This article discusses the commons through the lens of Theravada Buddhism and reflects on their relation regarding ethics and practice. First, we introduce the commons as a social system of self-organization and governance and as a way of sustainable living observed in both traditional and contemporary contexts. Simultaneously, informed by practiced examples of Buddhist commons from Cambodia, we highlight how the commons find culture-specific expressions and are compatible with the Buddhist tradition. Specifically, focusing on the Right Livelihood (sammā-ājīva) from the Noble Eightfold Path of the Pali Canon, we discuss how Buddhist ethics – i.e., interconnectedness, moderation, compassion, and generosity – align with the collaborative nature of the commons. Through the comparative understanding of both Buddhist and Commons’ perspectives, we aim to contribute to the relevant literature that challenges the unsustainable global-Western paradigm of economic growth and individualism.