The Threefold Training: Therav?da Buddhist Philosophy for Enhancing Quality of Life in an Artificial Intelligence Society

Abstract

This article aims to examine the principle of the Threefold Training (s?la, sam?dhi, and pa???) within the framework of Therav?da Buddhist philosophy, to analyze its relationship with quality-of-life issues in the age of artificial intelligence, and to propose guidelines for applying the Threefold Training to promote balanced and sustainable well-being in the digital era. The study finds that while artificial intelligence plays an increasingly significant role in all dimensions of contemporary life?enhancing convenience and efficiency?it also contributes to accelerated lifestyles, self-alienation, inner unrest, and weakened social relationships. The Threefold Training, as a systematic process of self-cultivation in conduct, mind, and wisdom, provides an essential framework for building ?mental resilience? amid the complexity of the digital world. Moral discipline (s?la) regulates behavior and prevents uncritical immersion in technology; concentration (sam?dhi) cultivates mindfulness and self-awareness; and wisdom (pa???) fosters a profound understanding of the nature of life and existence. The article concludes that the Threefold Training, as articulated in Therav?da Buddhist philosophy, not only addresses personal self-development but also serves as a conceptual framework for achieving balanced, happy, and sustainable quality of life in the age of artificial intelligence.