Digital Humanistic Buddhism: A New Approach to Contemporary Buddhist Studies

(Website: https://dhbuddhism.tech/)

Research Background

Recently, artificial intelligence has developed rapidly, providing a variety of new methods to promote the collection of digitized valuable Buddhist assets and primary information. For example -  canonical text, unearthed scrolls, and art artifacts. The digitalization of ancient and modern Buddhist treasures not only can help all living beings to understand the Dharma but also promotes Humanistic Buddhism. A new field of Buddhism called "Digital Humanistic Buddhism" was derived.

With this in mind, we plan to establish a “Digital Humanistic Buddhism” project. It aims to explore how to use advanced computer technology to promote Humanistic Buddhism principles and ideas innovatively so that people can apply Buddhist wisdom in their life.

The research project aims to: 

1. Set up several sub-projects to explore how to use innovative technology to develop various electronic tools for the convenience of Buddhists, scholars, and the general public. People may learn the essence of Humanistic Buddhism through different language media.

The sub-projects cover four major areas:

(1) Technology for translation of Buddhist scriptures

(2) Natural language processing and Buddhist literature

(3) Visualization of Buddhist Manuscripts

(4) Artificial intelligence and Buddhist art

2. To promote the interaction and integration of Humanistic Buddhism and information technology through various channels such as talks, workshops, seminars, and electronic media, so as to raise public awareness of the revitalization and application of traditional wisdom.

3. To lay the foundation for a larger research program on artificial intelligence and Humanistic Buddhism applications in the future.