The endeavor of this paper is to examine “mothering the world” as a philosophical ethic grounded in care, relational agency, and moral responsibility within humanistic Buddhist thought. Focusing on the writings of the Buddhist philosopher and world peace activist, Daisaku Ikeda, this research contends that motherhood is neither a sentimental ideal nor a biologically determined role. Instead, it emerges as a rigorous form of moral labor oriented towards peacebuilding, dialogue, and global citizenship. Engaging feminist ethics of care and maternal thinking, the discussion frames maternal practice as a mode of ethical universalism capable of transcending divisions of nation, identity, and conflict.
At the same time, the analysis foregrounds a tension central to feminist critiques of care. Feminist philosophers and sociologists such as Sara Ruddick, Arlie Hochschild, and bell hooks have shown that while women are celebrated for moral labor, this recognition rarely translates into structural power or equality. Drawing on this insight and recent scholarship on gender dynamics within the Soka Gakkai International, the paper examines whether celebrating feminine endurance supports equality or sustains traditional expectations. It concludes by distinguishing reflective care from imposed obligation, arguing that “mothering the world” fulfils its ethical promise only when dignity aligns with power and leadership.
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