A timely essay collection on the development and influence of secular expressions of Buddhism
in the West and beyond.How do secular values impact Buddhism in the modern world? What versions
of Buddhism are being transmitted to the West? Is it possible to know whether an interpretation
of the Buddha s words is correct?In this new essay collection opposing ideas that often define
Buddhist communities secular versus religious modern versus traditional Western versus
Eastern are unpacked and critically examined. These reflections by contemporary scholars and
practitioners reveal the dynamic process of reinterpreting and reimagining Buddhism in secular
contexts from the mindfulness movement to Buddhist shrine displays in museums to whether
rebirth is an essential belief.This collection explores a wide range of modern understandings
of Buddhism whether it is considered a religion philosophy or lifestyle choice and questions
if secular Buddhism is purely a Western invention offering a timely contribution to an
ever-evolving discussion.Contributors include Bhikkhu Bodhi Kate Crosby Gil Fronsdal
Kathleen Gregory Funie Hsu Roger R. Jackson Charles B. Jones David L. McMahan Richard K.
Payne Ron Purser Sarah Shaw Philippe Turenne and Pamela D. Winfield.
