Philosophy of the Buddha An Introduction [Hardcover]

Philosophy of the Buddhais a philosophical introduction to the teaching of the Buddha. It carefully guides readers through the basic ideas and practices of the Buddha, including kamma(karma), rebirth, the not-self doctrine, the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, ethics, meditation, non-attachment, and Nibb?na (Nirvana).

The book includes an account of the life of the Buddha as well as comparisons of his teaching with practical and theoretical aspects of some Western philosophical outlooks, both ancient and modern. Most distinctively, Philosophy of the Buddhaexplores how Buddhist enlightenment could enable us to overcome suffering in our lives and reach our full potential for compassion and tranquillity.

This is one of the first books to introduce the philosophy of the Buddha to students of Western philosophy. Christopher W. Gowans' style is exceptionally clear and appropriate for anyone looking for a comprehensive introduction to this growing area of interest.1. Observing the Stream  2. The Life of the Buddha  3. The Teaching in Brief  4. Practical Dimensions of the Teaching  5. Theoretical Dimensions of the Teaching  6. An Interpretation of the Not-Self Doctrine  7. The Rationale for Thinking There are No Substance-Selves  8. Some Philosophical Issues: Are We Substance-Selves or Process-Selves?  9. Kamma, Rebirth and the Not-Self Doctrine  10. The Nature and Extent of Suffering  11. The Origin of Suffering  12. The Cessation of Suffering: Nibbana-in-Life  13. The Cessation of Suffering: Nibbana-after-Death  14. The Eightfold Path: Wisdom  15. The Eightfold Path: Virtue  16. The Eightfold Path: Concentration  17. A Message of Hope: The Buddha's Invitation to Live SelflesslyChristopher W. Gowans is professor of philosophy at Fordham UnivlCM