Thich Nhat Hahn is a pioneer practitioner of engaged Buddhism, which is based on mindfulness, concentration, and insight. Putting these teachings into local and global concerns is the challenge of ethics. This accomplished Zen master sees the Four Noble Truths as a path to action and good citizenship.

Compassionate action is sorely needed in a world of widespread suffering due to poverty, sickness, homelessness, violence, hunger, and terrorism. In order to deal with the fear, pain, and anxiety of others, we need to stop and look deeply at our own suffering. Only then will we be able to cultivate compassion and serve others by putting them first.

Living in a world of extreme anger, violence, and cruelty, we must guard against these toxins which can poison us just like a rattlesnake bite can. Other sources of suffering are the ten fetters that bind us, depriving us of our freedom.

Happiness is possible; it is transitory; and it can be discovered in the present moment. It requires "samtusta," which is "the awareness that you are satisfied with little."

In his discussion of an ethical way of life, Thich Nhat Hahn discusses interbeing, seeing with our ancestor's eyes, understanding that our thought bears our signature, practicing right livelihood, and concentrating on impermanence.

He concludes with his assessment of the five mindfulness trainings and their relevance to the repair of the world. They are:

1. Reverence for Life
2. True Happiness
3. True Love
4. Loving Speech and Deep Listening
5. Nourishment and Healing

At the end of the book, he includes the "Manifesto 2000 For a Culture of Peace and Nonviolence" which was drafted with many Nobel Peace Prize winners. It's in the excerpt.