The Philosophy of Aikido

by John Stevens

At last, a clear and insightful look at the system of beliefs that is the basis for the practice of Aikido. The Philosophy of Aikido is an invaluable guide for practitioners--whether beginning or advanced--wishing to know more about the context in which Aikido was developed and Aikido's implications for the world today. Intended as a companion volume to Kisshomaru Ueshiba's classic The Spirit of Aikido, the book is authored by John Stevens, the foremost non-Japanese expert in the field. It is written from an international perspective that considers how Aikido is related to the emerging global culture. Some of the ideas discussed
* the relation of Aikido to such Asian traditions as Shinto, Shingon Buddhism, Omoto-kyo esotericism, Taoist mysticism and Tantra
* points of correspondence between Aikido and Western philosophical and religious systems--Greek philosophy, Christianity, Kabbalah, alchemy and modern scientific theories
*links between Aikido and art
* ways that Aikido thinking can be used to advance the causes of such urgent issues as health and healing, conflict resolution and environmental responsibility The Philosophy of Aikido will be of vital interest to all those who are drawn to a dynamic philosophy centered on harmony, peace and spiritual strength. The book includes 70 black-and-white illustrations of woodblock prints, calligraphy and photographs from the author's extensive collection.

Genres: Martial Arts, Philosophy, Nonfiction

132 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2001

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

John Stevens (1947- ) is a Buddhist priest and Aikido teacher.

Reviews

[Carlos]

This is a good introduction to Aikido philosophy, covering the basic principals as well as some of Ueshiba's life. What the book lacks in depth it makes up for in breadth, exploring the connections between Aikido and other spiritual traditions and disciplines, as well as the importance of real life applications.

[Cian Pearce]

I understand that Stevens sees Aikido in every aspect of life and that Aikido is more than a martial art but in a way the essence of life. However, I found the philosophy quite pseudo in nature and that a lot of ontological claims are made that translate into metaphysical claims.

[Jason]

Interesting read, but too many connections to both Eastern and Western religions and philosophies without enough of a thorough explanation of any to help the reader synthesize the meanings.

[Kenneth]

This book offers a succinct and satisfying overview of the philosophy of Aikido. It is not a manual. It offers spiritual insight on the practice. It also does a thorough job referencing other world religions/philosophies and comparing them to Aikido.

[Andre Miranda]

Neste livro o autor vai mais fundo na história do aikido e tenta passar a visão que o fundador tinha da arte.

Adquiri este livro durante um seminário do autor aqui no Rio, e ele gentilmente autografou pra mim.

[Pyqos]

Livre très instructif avec de beaux aperçus comparatistes (en particulier entre l'aikido et l'hassidisme).