THE READINGS · VII
Every member remains free to question, disagree, refuse an undertaking, and depart. Belonging does not require surrendering judgment.
READING A · Modern international human rights
United Nations, 1948; official English text.
The articles affirm freedom of thought, conscience, religion, expression, and peaceful association, including protection against compelled membership. This is a modern source with explicit protections.
Read Universal Declaration of Human Rights, articles 18–20 in the source edition · new tabREADING B · Buddhism
Thanissaro Bhikkhu's English translation, Access to Insight.
The discourse examines competing teachers and the grounds for accepting their teachings. It considers harm, benefit, and the judgment of the wise; it does not make personal preference the sole test of truth. This edition uses AN 3.65; its page also notes Thai numbering AN 3.66.
Read Kālāma Sutta, Anguttara Nikaya 3.65 in the source edition · new tabWITHIN THE ORDER
The Declaration provides explicit freedoms. The Buddhist discourse supplies a related practice of examining authority. Consider whether a member can exercise judgment and leave without coercion.
Can a man disagree or depart and retain our respect?