Sexual Misconduct (Kāmesumicchācāra) and the Philosophical Implications of Sexual Deviance in Buddhist Literature and Contemporary Buddhist Sexual Ethics

This peer-reviewed article, published in the International Journal of Buddhist Thought & Culture (Vol. 22, February 2014, pp. 145-161), explores the Buddhist understanding of sexual misconduct (kāmesumicchācāra) and sexual deviance. Drawing from canonical sources such as the Vinaya Piṭaka, Sutta texts, and ethical theories from both Buddhist and Western philosophy, it defines criteria for sexual misconduct, discusses the role of intention and consent, and analyzes how these principles apply in both historical and modern contexts. Keywords: Buddhist Ethics, Kāmesumicchācāra, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Deviance, Third Precept, Vinaya Piṭaka, Buddhist Philosophy. This file is provided for educational and research purposes only. Original copyright remains with the International Association for Buddhist Thought & Culture.