Tu Buddhist philosophy and Vietnamese culture: From tradition to modernity

Abstract

Humanistic thought and traditional ethical values have always played a central role in the formation and development of Vietnamese culture. Qualities such as compassion, a strong sense of community, tolerance, love for others, and a harmonious way of life with nature have been cultivated over generations, becoming the moral foundation of society. These values are not only reflected in folklore, traditional arts, and customs but also shape interpersonal behaviors and the way Vietnamese people engage with their communities and the natural environment. In the modern context—characterized by rapid globalization, urbanization, and the influence of market economies and technological development—the preservation and redefinition of traditional ethical values have become increasingly urgent. This article focuses on clarifying the transformation, adaptation, and diffusion of traditional humanistic values in contemporary life. By doing so, it aims to offer directions for building a culturally rich and human-centered Vietnamese society, capable of sustaining its identity and thriving in a constantly evolving world