Buddhism: Gender and sexuality

This topic explores Buddhist perspectives on gender and sexuality, examining how traditional teachings and modern interpretations address issues such as gender roles, sexual orientation, and equality. Students will study key texts like the Vinaya Pitaka and the Therigatha, as well as the roles of nuns and laypeople in different Buddhist traditions (Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana). The topic also considers contemporary debates, including the status of LGBTQ+ individuals in Buddhist communities and feminist critiques of patriarchal structures within Buddhism.

Understanding gender and sexuality in Buddhism is crucial for AQA A-Level Religious Studies because it connects core Buddhist concepts—such as anatta (no-self), karma, and the Middle Way—to real-world ethical issues. It also allows students to evaluate how Buddhist teachings have been adapted across cultures and time periods, challenging simplistic views of Buddhism as either entirely egalitarian or inherently patriarchal. This topic encourages critical thinking about the relationship between religious doctrine and social norms.

Within the wider AQA specification, this topic sits under 'Buddhist ethics' and 'Buddhist practices', linking to themes of compassion (karuna), wisdom (prajna), and the monastic community (sangha). It also intersects with other world religions and philosophical debates about human rights and identity. Mastery of this area demonstrates a nuanced understanding of how Buddhism engages with contemporary issues while remaining rooted in ancient traditions.