An Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy
Series: Cambridge Introductions to Philosophy
Stephen J. Laumakis
University of St Thomas, Minnesota


In this clearly written undergraduate textbook, Stephen Laumakis explains the origin and development of Buddhist ideas and concepts, focusing on the philosophical ideas and arguments presented and defended by selected thinkers and sutras from various traditions. He starts with a sketch of the Buddha and the Dharma, and highlights the origins of Buddhism in India. He then considers specific details of the Dharma with special attention to Buddhist metaphysics and epistemology, and examines the development of Buddhism in China, Japan, and Tibet, concluding with the ideas of the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh. In each chapter he includes explanations of key terms and teachings, excerpts from primary source materials, and presentations of the arguments for each position. His book will be an invaluable guide for all who are interested in this rich and vibrant philosophy.

• Each chapter has a summary of key terms and teachings • There are ‘things to think about’ at the end of each chapter to engage the reader in philosophical thought • A glossary of terms explains unfamiliar concepts to the reader
Contents

Preface; Part I. A Sketch of the Buddha and the Dhamma: 1. The life of Siddhattha Gotama; 2. The contexts for the emergence of Buddhism; 3. The basic teachings of the Buddha; 4. One Buddhism or many Buddhisms?; Part II. Details of the Dhamma: 5. Kamma, Samsara, and rebirth; 6. Interdependent arising; 7. Impermanence, no-enduring-self and emptiness; 8. Moksa and Nibbana; Part III. Development of the Damma/Dharma: 9. Bodhidharma’s and Huineng’s Buddhisms; 10. Pure land Buddhism; 11. Tibetan Buddhism; 12. Two forms of contemporary Buddhism.