One Encounter One Chance The Essence of the Art of Karate

Here is a fresh look at the traditional principles of karate, and especially a concept fundamental to all martial arts—that of the "empty self." It asks readers to let go of preconceptions of karate as merely a system of self-defense techniques and to realize the true intentions of this remarkable martial art.

This book is concerned with resolving conflict peacefully. It is not a manual of self-defense techniques, rather, more importantly, it is an inquiry into a unique perspective on the essence of all martial arts -- that of the "empty self". It takes a new look at the traditional principles of karate and gives the reader an insight into their original meaning, offering the serious practitioner the opportunity for self-understanding through the intelligent use of the art of karate.

Terrence Webster-Doyle is a martial arts sixth-degree black belt, former schoolteacher and administrator, Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Commission task force member, and parent of five daughters. He has written twenty-one internationally acclaimed, award-winning books on conflict education and the martial arts, and is co-founder and director of Martial Arts Partners for Peace.