Why Buddhism?: Westerners in Search of Wisdom

by Vicki Mackenzie

A series of in-depth accounts exploring the lives and spiritual journeys of fifteen western Buddhists - from the famous to the ordinary.

Genres: Buddhism, Nonfiction, Religion, Spirituality

336 pages, ebook

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[Johannes Bertus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some very inspiring stories. The author's views come through somewhat in the interviews, but she is sincere enough that it didn't bother me too much.
If I had to raise criticism, I would say is somewhat prone to equate Buddhism with Tibetanism, treating the many (legitimate) alternatives as oddities or even aberations. For instance she seems genuinely dumbfounded by Stephen Batchelor's skepticism of rebirth, while I would argue Batchelor merely takes the Buddha's teachings of non-self to their logical conclusion.
But when all is said and done, this is an inspiring overview of some dedicated Western Tibetan Buddhists.

[Dean Paradiso · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some interesting interviews with a wide range of Western background Buddhists over different traditions. Some well known, others not. Gives quite a good overview of the ways that Western people have taken on Buddhism and adapted some of the practices. It is good that the author also included both sides of views on issues such as karma, rebirth etc.

[Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really interesting and quite diverse group of Western Buddhist practitioners (many well known, some not so) explain why they find Buddhist practices personally beneficial. Mainly focuses on Mahayana, but does include Theravada too. The book is well written, based on interviews with the subjects which have been presented very clearly, and easy to read.

[Phil Calandra · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Why Buddhism? Westerners in search of wisdom" is a series of interviews of some well known and less well known people which explores the growing interest of Buddhism in Western society. The reader is afforded a unique view and understanding of Buddhism through the experiences of several people who were initially attracted and eventually became immersed in their practice

[Bodhi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A light read of inspiring and motivating interviews with Westerners who have embraced Buddhism as a way of balancing and enriching their lives.

[Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so inspiring. I started meditating more in hope of experiencing even something in the slight that others in this book. It opens your eyes to another life. Another way of existing in this world that carries you through everything imaginable and not so imaginable.
I really enjoyed getting the different perspectives from all the people interviewed because they each said something valuable and unique and equally important for the understanding and progress of someone hoping to embark on the same path. I felt excited to meditate reading it. The concepts were well explained with many stories and anecdotes along the way to help cement your understanding and to some extent the profundity these people have experienced. As a practical person I very much identified with Buddhism. There were some things I didn't agree with quite as much but that's the beauty of it - it's not an all or nothing "religion" which denotes true authenticity for the benefit of every individual whom partakes. I can't wait to continue my journey of discovering the Buddhist philosophy.