Mundane right view focuses on kamma and rebirth, and specifically on the value of generosity on the one hand, and gratitude on the other. The Buddha emphasizes the positive side of kamma: The fact that we can do a lot of good with our actions.

"Mundane right view focuses on kamma and rebirth, and specifically on the value of generosity on the one hand, and gratitude on the other.

Most of us, when we first hear the teachings on kamma, tend to think about punishment. You hear that you’re going to suffer from the results of your past bad actions, and the first thing that comes to your mind is, “Oh my God! That thing I did in the past when I hurt that person or did this thing I know was wrong: It’s going to come back and get me!” That’s our normal first thought about the teaching on kamma.

But that’s not what the Buddha emphasizes when he teaches kamma. He emphasizes the positive side of karma: The fact that we can do a lot of good with our actions. He starts with reflecting on the gratitude we owe to people who’ve helped us — because they actually chose to do it. It wasn’t that they were acting under determined forces that forced them to help us. They chose to help us. We owe them gratitude — particularly, our parents. And that thought should warm our heart. Goodness really is goodness. It’s worth the effort it involves.

The same with the principle of generosity: The decision to give something is a genuine decision, it’s genuinely good.

These are the two principles the Buddha asks you to act on as you try to navigate your way in this world, so at the very least you can have a comfortable life this time around and can expect something comfortable the next time around. That’s mundane right view."

~ Thanissaro Bhikkhu "Ways to Think"

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