A common misconception about Buddhism is that it is a religion in which one has to “believe” in.

And it’s fine if it’s seen that way. I won’t argue otherwise.

But, I will ask: Is that practical?

I’ve expressed that philosophy (and religion) should be simplified into practical means to improve one’s life.

This means that we should look to make use of things rather than argue theory and ideas. We should think of things that will help us be successful and effective in real-life circumstances.

That’s what Buddhism does.

The core ideas of Buddhism revolve around the Four Noble Truths, which are patterned on the traditional physician’s diagnosis and prescription:

1. The identification of the disease.
2. The cause of the disease.
3. The pronouncement as to whether it may be cured.
4. The prescription for the remedy.

The Four Noble Truths are:

1. Life is suffering.
2. The cause of suffering is desire.
3. Suffering can end when desire ends.
4. The way to end suffering is by living one’s life following what’s called the “Eightfold Path”.