Matthew J. Walton

Matthew J. Walton, the Aung San Suu Kyi Senior Research Fellow in Modern Burmese Studies at Oxford, dives deep into the complex relationship between Buddhism and politics in Myanmar. He discusses how monks have transitioned from peaceful practitioners to key players in a new religious nationalism. Walton shares insights from his extensive research, analyzing how Buddhist moral teachings shape political ideologies and the unique democratic expressions found in Myanmar. His examination reveals the intricate balance of karma, governance, and the historical context impacting contemporary politics.