BUDDSHIM IN THE MODERN WORLD
By
An English revision of a 1970 German volume in a series on present-day cultural transformation throughout the world. Since this version not only translates and updates the well-regarded original but adds several new contributions, its publication is welcome. A ""micropedia"" on contemporary Buddhism, it offers in its 20 chapters by esteemed scholars a thorough survey of the religion's current condition in all the countries where it is a significant presence. Contents include an outline of Buddhism's basic teachings, detailed discussions of distinctive national forms taken by the Theravada (narrower) tradition in South Asia and the Mahayana (broader) stream in Far East Asia, and a concluding analysis of Buddhist influences outside Asia, particularly in the US, England, and Germany. A common theme pervades the individual reports: Buddhism is a vital religious force in today's world and is being modernized in a humanizing direction everywhere. Likely the definitive one-volume treatment of the subject, Dumoulin's book will serve primarily as an expert reference work and college text for students seeking solid information and undeterred by a stodgy format.