Synopses & Reviews
From its origins in India over two millennia ago, Buddhism spread throughout Asia and the world. This far-reaching and accessible introduction explains how Buddhism began, developed into its present-day form, and evolved in the Westwhere it now exerts increasing cultural influence. Complete with maps, diagrams, and illustrations, Buddhism provides detailed coverage of key topics such as karma, rebirth, meditation, and ethics, along with the distinguishing features of the main schools.
Synopsis
This accessible volume covers both the teachings of the Buddha and the integration of Buddhism into daily life. What are the distinctive features of Buddhism? What or who is the Buddha, and what are his teachings? How has Buddhist thought developed over the centuries, and how can contemporary dilemmas be faced from a Buddhist perspective? Words such as karma and nirvana have entered our vocabulary, but what do they really mean? Keown has taught Buddhism at an introductory level for many years, and in this book he provides a lively, challenging response to these frequently asked questions.
About the Author
DAMIEN KEOWN is Professor of Buddhist Ethics at Goldsmiths College, University of London, and a fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society. He is also the founding co-editor of the Journal of Buddhist Ethics, and has published extensively on the subject.