that the elimination of material causes of suffering can make it easier to focus on the mental causes. So how is it that science can benefit by adopting elements of the Buddhist approach? The answer to this question is not actually aimed at science itself but rather at those who involve themselves with it. Science itself is by definition is merely a methodological activity aimed at providing an explanation for natural phenomena. So it is through the scientist that the influence of Buddhism could work to increase the benefits (technologies) that come from science. Surely, with reference to Buddhism's system of ethical causation, scientists could increase scientific benefit in at least two ways. First, the Buddhist approach could inspire scientists to look at what it is exactly that has the focus of their scientific eye. Perhaps this would allow for a reevaluation of what is really worthwhile in regards to scientific study. Second, certainly the ethical approach of Buddhism would require that scientists give pause and consider the potential impact that their discoveries might have if not managed wisely. So not only would the scientific community be asking "What do we study?", but they would also be asking "What should we do with what we find?" This may seem a bit strange at first, but a quick glance at the world today will show us the dramatic effects of a science without ethics. It was only little more than half a century ago that atomic energy was used to destroy the lives of thousands of innocent humans. And now we are confronted with the possibilities of commercial genetic selection and human cloning. It seems that science now more than ever needs ethical guidance....
