State and religion: Buddhism and nation building in Singapore

Abstract

This paper discusses the relationship between the state and religion in contemporary Singapore. It examines the extent to which the state uses religion, as exemplified by the use of Buddhism, in pursuing its goal of nation-building. Buddhism was incorporated into the school curriculum and is taught as part of the moral education programme. In so doing, the state attempts to rationalize Buddhism on the one hand and at the same time, make use of Buddhism to further its very own secular ends. -Author