Migglism: A Beginner's Guide to Middle Way Philosophy

by Robert M. Ellis

'Migglism' is a short term for Middle Way Philosophy, a practical philosophical approach developed by Robert M. Ellis in a Ph.D. thesis and a series of books. Middle Way Philosophy brings together insights from Buddhism, philosophy and psychology to offer a framework of thinking for a range of integrative practices. This book introduces these ideas in an accessible way. 'The Middle Way' is not a compromise, but a process of navigating between dogmatic extremes. By avoiding either positive or negative claims that go beyond experience, we can find a new way of thinking, valuing and practising. Approved by the Middle Way Society. "The middle is the chaotic and confusing place between the extremes. While the extremes are simpler and more attractive, it is in the mess in the middle where the interesting and creative activities occur - it is where we should be. Robert sets out a foundation for a way of thinking about the middle ground as a place to move towards." Ed Catmull, President of Pixar.

158 pages, Paperback

First published May 20, 2014

About the author

Robert M Ellis is the author of more than 20 books on Middle Way Philosophy, which is a practical philosophy focused on making the most of our experience in all our judgements. Initially inspired by the Buddha's Middle Way and Buddhist practice, he completed a Ph.D. on the Middle Way in 2001 that marked the beginning of his work exploring the universal Middle Way in relation to Western philosophy, psychology, systems, embodiment, and a range of other disciplines. He is now on the second wave of development of Middle Way Philosophy, in a new series being published by Equinox, beginning with 'Absolutization' (2022) and 'The Five Principles of the Middle Way'. (2023) He has also published books about the Middle Way in relation to Buddhism, Christianity, and Jungian archetypes, as well as the introductory book 'Migglism' (2014), the short argument 'Buddhism and God' (2021), parable fiction, and poetry. He now lives in Wales, where he runs a retreat centre and is cultivating a forest garden.

Reviews

[Hari Sood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Migglism is a fantastic short read! It provides a really accessible intro to the Middle Way philosophy, and at approx. 150 pages is easily finished in a few others.

The Middle Way approach is fascinating and really persuasive - the starting point of rejecting metaphysical claims and working on ideas like 'provisionality' (openness to changing our beliefs on new information) and 'integration' (finding ways for contradictory beliefs to work together) are really important lessons.

I will be buying a few copies for close friends, and have joined the Middle Way Society as a result to improve what I have learned. Recommend to all!