Buddhist Thought A Complete Introduction to the Indian Tradition

'Though there is no shortage of introductions to Buddhism on the market, I found this one compelling reading, for the ideas are presented with logical cogency and stylistic clarity. The summary of the Buddha's own views would be hard to better.' Richard Gombrich, Balliol College, Oxford If you have ever wanted to understand Buddhist thought, then this is the book for you. Here is an accessible introduction to Buddhist thought, which takes readers completely unfamiliar with the subject as quickly as possible to an accurate appreciation and understanding of the main ideas, tracing their development from the time of Buddha, and opening up the latest scholarly perspectives and controversies. By focusing on classical India (including modern Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka) as well as areas of Central Asia and South-East Asia directly influenced by India, the book provides the essential foundation for an appreciation of Buddhism as a whole. Abstract and complex ideas are made accessible by the authors' clear and lucid style. The book includes, for instance, by far the most accessible and up-to-date survey of Tantric Buddhism in India, a subject, particularly in its sexual aspects, often misunderstood in the West. Detailed bibliographies complete a comprehensive, authoritative and engaging introduction and resource guide to one of the world's great philosophies.Williams, Paul is the author of 'Buddhist Thought A Complete Introduction to the Indian Tradition' with ISBN 9780415207010 and ISBN 0415207010.