Description
Book SynopsisD.T. Suzuki (1870-1966) reached global fame for his writings on Zen Buddhism. In this introduction to his theories of self, knowledge, and the world, Suzuki is presented as a Buddhist philosopher in his own right.Beginning with a biography of his life providing the historical context to his thought and discussing Suzuki's influences, chapters cover the Zen notion of the non-self and Suzuki''s Zen view of consciousness, language, and religious truths. His ideas about philosophy and radical views on rationality and faith come to life in two new complete translations of
The Place of Peace in our Heart (1894) and
Religion and Science (1949), which helps us to understand why Suzuki's description of Zen attracted the attention of many leading intellectuals and helped it become a household name in the English-speaking world.Offering the first complete overview of Suzuki's approach, reputation, and legacy as a philosopher, this is for anyone interested in the philosophical releva
Trade ReviewThis refreshing book slices through the stale standoff between uncritical admirers and polemical detractors of this hugely influential international interpreter of Zen, a book that takes D. T. Suzuki seriously as a philosopher—albeit one who was deeply ambivalent about the limits of, and yet need for, philosophy. * Bret W. Davis, Professor & Higgins Chair in Philosophy, Loyola University Maryland, USA *
Rossa Ó Muireartaigh provides a thought-provoking account and evaluation of the merits and controversies surrounding the legacy of the crucial modern Zen Buddhist thinker, D. T. Suzuki. This book, which features a couple of new translations of Suzuki's essays, is highly recommended to researchers and students of Japanese religion and society. * Steven Heine, Professor of Religious Studies and History Director of Asian Studies, Florida International University, USA *
Table of Contents1. Introduction Biography of Suzuki Historical and intellectual context of Suzuki Scope of book 2. Self Introduction The Problem of one’s self Self in the Philosophy of Buddhism Self in Emptiness 3. Knowledge No-self and Knowledge Zen Wisdom Zen of Experience and Experience of Zen Language and Koans 4. World Zen of Sociology Sociology of Zen Zen and Ideology Zen in History and History in Zen 5. D.T. Suzuki’s Philosophical Legacy Criticism and responses Silent lingering Translations The Place of Peace in Our Heart (1894) Religion and Science (1949) Further Reading and Discussion Questions Bibliography Index
