The exposure of scandals in Thailand’s Buddhist clergy, or Sangha, constantly grab the attention of the media and the public. The disappointing behaviour is often contradictory to Buddhists’ expectations, as monks are obliged to abide by rigorous ethical rules and 227 precepts laid down by The Lord Buddha. Thai PBS World spoke with Bhante Kantasilo, an American monk who has devoted himself to a religious life for over 40 years. According to Buddhist principles, he reflects on social issues, such as misconduct among the clergy, the non-believer concept and offers advice on how to live peacefully in the world full of conflict and negativity.
