Synopses & Reviews
A challenging and provocative collection of essays on comparative philosophy, religion and culture from one of the foremost thinkers of our time, this volume gathers Huston Smith's most insightful and important reflections on the state of the human spiritual life. With a range and depth seldom seen in contemporary religious studies, Smith examines the contributions of religion and philosophy to the worldÆs great civilizations, both past and present. He explores the traditions of East Asia, South Asia, and the West, discusses the importance of comparative studies in a religiously pluralistic world in energetic prose that can be appreciated by both the layman and the student.
Synopsis
"Marked by clarity, rare philosophical depth and a truly global perspective... filled with challenging ideas and bold speculations". -- Publishers Weekly
Synopsis
A challenging and provocative collection of essays on comparative philosophy, religion and culture from one of the foremost thinkers of our time, this volume gathers Huston Smith's most insightful and important reflections on the state of the human spiritual life. With a range and depth seldom seen in contemporary religious studies, Smith examines the contributions of religion and philosophy to the worldÆs great civilizations, both past and present. He explores the traditions of East Asia, South Asia, and the West, discusses the importance of comparative studies in a religiously pluralistic world in energetic prose that can be appreciated by both the layman and the student.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [279]-287) and index.
Table of Contents
Foreword by Huston Smith Acknowledgments Introduction I. Foundations Accents of the World's Philosophies Accents of the World's Religions Truth in Comparative Perspective II. The Splendid Prism East Asia Transcendence in Traditional China Tao Now: An Ecological Testament A Note on Shinto Spiritual Discipline in Zen and Comparative Perspective "Celestial Mirages": Reflections on Thought and Truth South Asia India and the Infinite Vedic Religion and the Soma Experience The Importance of the Buddha Tibetan Chant: Inducing the Spirit The West The Western Way: An Essay on Reason and the Given The Conceptual Crisis in the Modern West Western Philosophy as a Great Religion III. Consequences: Social, Educational, and Ecumenical The Relevance of the Great Religions for the Modern World Another World to Live in, or How I Teach the Introductory Course This Ecumenical Moment: What Are We Seeking? Postmodernism's Impact on the Study of Religion Bibliography Index