Understanding Eastern Philosophy - Hardcover

Billington, Ray

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0415129648 ISBN 13: 9780415129640

Publisher: Routledge, 1997

Synopsis

Understanding Eastern Philosophy provides an accessible critical introduction to how some of the key philosophies of the East compare with those in the West. Starting from a discussion of the problems of distinguishing between religions and philosophies, Ray Billington presents a clear picture of the key tenets behind Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Jainism and Confucianism.
Moving on to compare the key themes of religious philosophy that cut across East and West, such as a belief in God, the soul, moral decision-making, nature and authority, Understanding Eastern Philosophy presents a fascinating and controversial picture of the contribution theistic religions have to make. With its belief in a personal God bestowing a particular version of 'truth', Ray Billington concludes that the universal mysticism characteristic of Eastern thought provides a more realistic and rewarding path than is commonly supposed in the West.
Understanding Eastern Philosophy assumes no prior knowledge of religion or philosophy.

About this title

About the Author

Ray Billington was a Methodist minister until he was expelled in 1971 for heresy. He has since taught Eastern and Western philosophy at various universities in the US and UK and now teaches at the University of the West of England. He is the author of numerous books including Living Philosophy, 2nd edition (Routledge 1994) and East of Existentialism (Routledge 1990).

Review

'A fresh approach to Eastern philosophies ... a very stimulating account.' - Network

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0415129648
• ISBN 13: 9780415129640
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 208