Buddhism is old-fashioned

Attended a talk titled “Dharma in the 21st century”, and Venerable Chonyi asked for our comments re Buddhism being old-fashioned, and if that is the prevalent view of the younger generation in this day and age. (Actually she meant the general public’s perception)

Well, I didn’t share, but I totally do think that youth nowadays have the perception that Buddhism is old-fashioned. For one thing, unless you fully understand the rationale and reasoning behind each Buddhism related ritual/action, e.g incense, prostrations, etc, you would not be able to do the actions at all (unless you are talking about blind faith or idol worship, but that’s a different topic all together.)

In fact, you would see it as pointless and even silly, such as wearing the black robes (haiqing), walking so slowly while chanting…
In this time and age, obviously it would not appeal to the younger generation. They are at an age where life is supposed to be filled with fun and laughter, where they try to live it to the fullest, and indulge in their sense pleasures. Hanging out with their friends, playing the guitar at some modern new building, attending sessions with music and the high feeling; that’s what they want in their lives.

They are simply not ready to find the quiet and peace in their hearts/lives, and be contented with what (little or alot) they have.

From the perspective of social-cum-human development psychology, I tend to understand that it might just be a phase that we all go through, that we tend to think we are at the top of the world when we are young. That we want to go out and play, and fully enjoy ourselves at the peak of our lives. Who has the time to sit down and meditate, to find inner joy when the bright lights of the city are calling out to you.

That might explain why (if my observations are right), that the demographics of Buddhism tend to be older. (for various other reasons as well).

When we get older, and tired of the rat race, of the slogging, of the partying, we might than settle down, and realize that there is something missing in our lives. That would be the entry point for a religion to fulfill our spiritual longing/need.

Buddhism is timeless, and can be applied by all ages. Sad to say, society has evolved in such a way, together with cultural influences, etc, that Buddhism is seen as old-fashioned. Personally, on one level, I am perfectly alright with that. So what if it is old-fashioned. As long as it works and brings me out of my suffering.

Yet I do see the impact that the “negative” perception has on the spread and take-up of Buddhism. But how do we revamp and reach out to those that has yet to hear their inner calls?