Why Buddhism aint so bad, really.

[When deciding between what is right and what is wrong] do not go by:

• ...what has been said for many years
• ...what is compatible with traditional practice
• ...what is said in widespread news and rumors
• ...what is written in a book
• ...what logical reasoning leads you to believe
• ...what a philosophy says should hold true
• ...what is "common sense"
• ...what fits with your preconcieved opinions and theories
• ...what a person of high social or intellectual standing says
• ...what your guru tells you

...but if after observation and analysis you find that certain moral guidelines lead to harmony, are without blame, are praised by the wise; if, undertaken and observed, they lead to benefit and happiness, then you should abide by them.

--Buddha, The Kalama Sutta