Invoking the Middleness of 'Ma ning' Towward the Dissolution of Gender Dualism

Abstract

An in depth analysis of the practice and tenets of Buddhism reveals an appealing potential for healing a planet of people because of its scientific approach, foundation of insight meditation, and its premise that all identity, including sexual, is a construct and an illusion. I was, however, surprised to discover that the original, Eastern Buddhist practice is misogynistic and runs counter to its non-dualistic philosophy. Yet, due to its intellectual approach to spirituality, Buddhism does contain a plasticity to evolve to a new and dispassionate acceptance of the differences and equality of maleness and femaleness with its claim of anatman or egolessness and equanimity with all sentient beings. Surprisingly, in Eastern practice, Buddhist adherents are fiercely attached to the ancient Vinaya that insist that women are inferior to men in every way.