Synopses & Reviews
This is the first in-depth study of the Soka Gakkai Buddhists in the United States. Drawing on unprecedented access to the organization through surveys and interviews, it provides a definitive and revealing picture of one of the fastest-growing religions in the world. The authors shed light on contemporary American society and show how many members of this sect are drawn from a growing "transmodern" subculture in America. In addition, the book traces the development of the organization in the US, examining how it adapted to the peculiar circumstances of America's cultural life showing how it has now become a very American phenomenon.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 217-220) and index.
Table of Contents
Introduction
PART ONE: SGI-USA: THE ORGANIZATION AND ITS MEMBERS
1. Soka Gakkai History, Philosophy, and Practice
2. The Membership of SGI-USA
3. The Practice of Soka Gakkai Buddhism
PART TWO: SGI-USA: ITS CONVERTS
4. Supply-Side Influences on the Development of SGI-USA
5. Values and Conversion: The Question of Demand
6. Encounter, Recruitment, and Conversion
Conclusion
Appendix A: About this Study
Appendix B: The Representativeness of the Respondents
Appendix C: The Survey Instrument
Reference