PDI: Is there such a thing as collective/national karma? Would this explain the problems of the Philippines?
Thaye: There is collective karma in the sense that when a multitude follows a particular way of thinking and also acts on it, then similar karma is accumulated. When beings have similar karma, then no matter where they are, they will have very similar experiences.
PDI: How compassionate should others be towards homosexuals and lesbians?
Thaye: When we generate bodhicitta a mind—including thought, action, feeling and speech—totally dedicated to others and to achieving full enlightenment in order to benefit all there are no distinctions with regard to caste, creed or sexual orientation. These categories do not apply when it comes to bodhicitta. As long as we have a consciousness, we have the capacity to cultivate bodhicitta.