Why Buddhism?: Westerners in search of wisdom

by VickiMacKenzie (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  2001

  $6.50

  Why Buddhism? is a series of interviews through which Vicki McKenzie (author of Cave in the Snow) explores the reason for Buddhism's growing appeal in western society. Through personal examples, this book will reveal what Buddhism means to a wide range of people in the UK, Australia and US. The interviews are inspiring and informative, covering the process each person went through in becoming involved in Buddhism, as well as the effect it has had on their lives and any difficulties they've encountered. The subjects interviewed in Why Buddhism? range from the famous, like composer Phillip Glass, actor Tracy Mann, and author/teacher Robert Thurman, to the heroic, such as the nun who brings Buddhist teachings to hardened criminals in jail, the extraordinary - like the Buddhist diamond merchant, and the ordinary made remarkable - like the woman Queensland woman dying a good Buddhist death. Popular rather than scholarly in tone, Why Buddhism? should appeal to those of us who are keen to know more about a religion that is much talked about but little understood.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2002

  $5.83

  This title takes a look at why Buddhism is the fastest-growing religion in the West. Vicki Mackenzie, author of A Cave in the Snow , has been a Buddhist for 25 years. An interviewer, journalist and author, she explores this question in the UK, the US and Australia, with people who have turned to Buddhism, taking its philosophy and spirit into their lives and work. Among the stories are those of composer Philip Glass and Professor Bob Thurman and Buddhist luminaries Sharon Salzberg and Stephen Batchelor. The book explores Buddhism in relation to: ideas about other religions; about work and worldly success; thoughts on mind, consciousness and enlightenment; views on nature, the family, relationships; and death. The picture that emerges is a reflection on what Buddhism means to the contemporary West. This picture shows that Buddhism appears to attract intelligent and creative thinkers who seek a wiser way to live, inspiring them with joyful spirituality, tolerant and practical ethics, and fellowship within the unity of all life.