Buddish: A Guide to the 20 Most Important Buddhist Ideas for the Curious and Skeptical

by C. Pierce Salguero

This book is a readable introduction for complete newcomers that provides an objective, streamlined overview of the Buddhist tradition. For those who have already dipped their toes into the tradition through the practice of mindfulness or meditation, this guide will help you create a more well-rounded and informed experience by delving into the history of the Buddhist traditions.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

Audiobook

First published March 7, 2022

About the author

I am a transdisciplinary scholar of health humanities who is fascinated by historical and contemporary intersections between Buddhism, medicine, and crosscultural exchange. I have a Ph.D. in History of Medicine from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (2010), and teach Asian history, medicine, and religion at Penn State University’s Abington College, located near Philadelphia. I also have been the editor in chief of the journal Asian Medicine: Journal of the International Association for the Study of Traditional Asian Medicine since 2016.
The major theme in my scholarship is discovering the role of Buddhism in the global transmission and local reception of knowledge about health, disease, and the body. I approach this topic using methodologies from history, religious studies, translation studies, literary studies, and ethnography.
I am continually seeking opportunities to cross disciplinary lines in publishing and presenting my work. I regularly publish writing for non-scholarly audiences, and am passionate about connecting my scholarship and teaching with contemporary issues and events both within and beyond the academy. More recently, I have gotten into documentary filmmaking and podcasting as well.

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting historical overview of Buddhism - there is so much to learn and as the author says “it would take many lifetimes to learn”. I liked that he said you don’t have to be Buddhist to follow some of their traditions. I believe many of their beliefs and practices are human kindnesses and we could all use more of that.

[Al Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who is familiar with Christian traditions and theology, I thought it might be very useful to dip info another pond that has millions of followers around the world. These are our brothers and sisters and it's only polite and loving top give a rip about what they believe and what guides their lives.

I found the read very accessible for a non-Buddhist. The term "Buddhish," used in the title, offers some insight into the accessible and open minded nature of this read.

It covers some history, some practices and some clarification on beliefs. Anyone interested in Faith traditions, especially those who are immersed in the Evangelical world, will benefit from becoming familiar with one of the world's oldest and most popular faith traditions.

And, to my fellow Bible thumpers... worry not... the book will not try to convert you. It just might make you a little less awkward when dealting with others of the World's many faith traditions.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally finished this book after buying it in Malaysia last year. Very approachable overview of Buddhist teachings, particularly suited for someone with a western world view. I had some previous knowledge, specifically with regards to yoga and mindfulness and its connections to Buddhist religions, but this offered a more religious, science based overview.

The author has a nice sense of humor, which keeps this book also entertaining (yet also very informative, at least imo).

For the whole book I was thinking “I should start making a glossary” for the key Buddhist terms mentioned, only to find out there’s a nice compact glossary entailed in the end of the book.

[Chet Taranowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good summary of basic Buddhism. The author is both at times skeptical and yet also positive about some of the basic beliefs. I particularly liked his simple explanation of the 4 major schools of thought.

[Ivyne Entries · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated the unbiased opinion approach throughout the book. I was able to learn some key terms and practices. Now, I can do more in depth research on my own. I'd honestly love to find an unbiased book like this on other large religions/cultural practices.

[Nichole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good intro to Buddhist philosophy and practices. It does a great job putting difficult concepts into laymans terms and how you can use the ideas to improve yourself and outlook on life

[John Kaufmann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed. Some chapters were very good, some not so much.

[Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.7*

[JJ Edwards · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting overview of Buddhism

[Stephanie Coffin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful summary of Buddhism along with additional resources. I appreciated the clarity and the balanced approach.

[Ljonz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Educational and anecdotal, this book helps demystify the terms and types of Buddhism.