Understanding Zen

by Benjamin Radcliff, Amy Radcliff

"The authors of this book, who both have university affiliations, present Zen as a "secular doctrine without any necessary relationship to Buddhism or Eastern culture." Some of the seven chapters deal with such concepts as reason, paradox, meaning, and existence and how they relate to Zen. Others explore successfully the origin of Zen, the practice of meditation, and the social implications of Zen. The authors also investigate the Taoist and Buddhist ideas preceding Zen and relate it to Freudian psychology, anarchism, and the dualistic truths of the scientific method. Though this well-done study is accessible to informed lay readers, it is more suitable for academic libraries."— Library Journal

Genres: Zen

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1900

About the author

Benjamin Radcliff is Associate Professor of Government, at the University of Notre Dame, Paris, France.

Reviews

[Tj DeFrank · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best philosophy books I've ever read. Also, the only philosophy book I've ever bothered to read more than once.

[David Mccowan · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want to understand Zen Buddhism from a western philosophical tradition this is the book to read. Of Course now that I'm in Christ I would suggest you just read the Bible instead.

[Draco3seven Crawdady · Rating 5 out of 5]

read this book a long time ago... It seems like it was good at priming ones mind as to the direction one might look... so to see an entity or hidden treasure that may exist in another cultures back yard…

[Christy King · Rating 4 out of 5]

A friend recommended this book to me after asking, "why do you want to try to meditate? You're not neurotic...." this book is written for the pragmatic and practical person. Great language, concise and clear. A game-changer for me. A great book to read as part of any self-exploration effort.

[Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed how I look at the world. If you read it and truly understand it, you cannot go back to seeing things the old way. Not that you'll want to.

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! The first book that has been able to successfully "explain" what Zen is (in as much as it can be explained that is). I think many more readings and review will be in order.