Book Description
By the end of the eighteenth century a distinctly modern vision of life was emerging. The revolutions in America and France revealed new beliefs about human nature; rights and duties; the natural and material worlds; and a new faith in science, technology and the idea of progress. As people began to change the way they thought about themselves and the world around them, a whole new way of thinking developed, which still has an overwhelming impact two centuries on.

The Enlightenment Reader brings together the work of major Enlightenment thinkers to illustrate the full importance and achievements of this period in history. Extracts are gathered thematically into sections on such aspects of the Enlightenment as political theory, religion and belief, art and nature. In each section, the texts are introduced and a final section on 'Critical Reflections' provides a selection of modern critical opinions on the period.

Containing illustrations from the work of artists such as Hogarth and Chardin, a chronology of the Enlightenment, and a detailed bibliography, The Enlightenment Reader is a rich source information and inspiration for all those studying this great period of change. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Prepare to be Enlightened...
While I might quibble a bit with the chronological boundaries set by the editors of this text, it nonetheless incorporates the majority of the Enlightenment period in the selection of writings.The Enlightenment is primarily the post-Renaissance philosophical period around the eighteenth century, where reason and individualism in the various intellectual disciplines surpassed tradition as primary factors.Key figures in the Enlightenment strand of philosophy include Newton, Locke, Leibniz, Voltaire, Hume, Montesquieu, Rousseau, Diderot, Pope, Gibbon, Adam Smith, Bentham and Kant.Various artistic, literary, philosophical, and political movements that began in the Enlightenment are still primary factors in the world today.For example, the economic and political frameworks of the American Revolution and the French Revolution came out of this movement.Scientific and mathematical principles established during this period still remain powerful methodological tools in current practice.

Editors Paul Hyland, Olga Gomez and Francesca Greensides each bring a background of liberal arts, history and cultural studies to bear the task of developing this superb collection of readings and essays on the Enlightenment.The texts themselves come from as original of sources as were available -- the editors did not try to 'clean up' the language or standardise too much, but did do editorial changes to reduce awkwardness in punctuation, capitalisation and such.Most of these selections come from authoritative eighteenth century editions or translations.

Each section of sources is tied to a particular subject or theme; each section is introduced by a brief essay discussing the importance of the subject or theme to the overall context of the Enlightenment.For example, the very first subject section is on Human Nature -- given the importance of the rise of individualism as a key concept regarding human nature for the Enlightenment mindset, this is a good place to start.Alexander Pope is quoted as an Enlightenment champion for saying 'the proper study of mankind is man', in other words, the movement was away from theological ideas concerned more with a distance and unchanging/immutable God and more toward the human condition.

There are thirteen sections of sources, which include the following topics:Human nature; the search for knowledge; religion and belief; the natural world; science and invention; political rights and responsibilities; civil society; moral principles; gender and society; art, architecture and nature; Europeans and the wider world; radicalism and revolution; and a few autobiographical pieces (Rousseau, Franklin, and Madame de Roland). Within each of these sections are a selection of sources from the major writers, artists and other figures of the period, sources that had the greatest impact -- for example, under the topic of political rights and responsibilities is included passages from Locke and Montesquieu, as well as sources from political leaders Catherine II and Frederick II.Each author is introduced with a brief biographical sketch and contextual information; occasionally the editors insert more material to put the source selection in proper perspective.

The second part of the book (actually only one-tenth of the page number of the book) is a reader of various essays from modern writers such as Jurgen Habermas, Peter Gay, Jean-Francois Lyotard and Michel Foucault on different aspects of the Enlightenment, looking at it both as a piece of history and as a continuing force to be dealt with in modern times.The third part is a brief chronology, highlighting key events, publications, artistic accomplishments, political situations and more.Primary sources for further study are highlighted in this chronological listing.

The further readings listings are extensive and well organised according to general works, primary and secondary sources, national contexts, works from particular writers, and finally the chapter topics.The index is extremely well done and useful, an important piece in a large academic text such as this.

No sourcebook on a period such as the Enlightenment can ever be complete.I have several shelves of books from writers from this period of history; of course this could not be incorporated in a single volume.However, what the editors have done is a splendid job of selecting the most interesting, most insightful, most influential pieces from this period, and set the stage for a broad understanding of the Enlightenment, as well as (hopefully) stimulus for further research. ... Read more

Book Description

Deepak Chopra brings the Buddha back to life in this gripping New York Times bestselling novel about the young prince who abandoned his inheritance to discover his true calling. This iconic journey changed the world forever, and the truths revealed continue to influence every corner of the globe today.

Customer Reviews (45)

Enjoyable work with some liberties taken
Hopefully, no one will read this and take it for gospel.There are alot of blank spots in Buddha's life where we either know nothing at all or have several "versions."This is a version.Make sure you know that going into it.Still, there isn't much out there in the way of Buddhist fiction, so it was nice to find this book.Recommended.

The Mind of Buddha
This is Chopra's ability to be there in the flesh, watching the buddha ,not living him. The book has no peaks , no trouphs the realisations not blinding. It is a smooth story of the turbulence of the mind , the intense temptations and visitudes shake the man Gautama. The reactions as they get low on intensity ultimately reaches the 'zero'the man becomes 'The Buddha'. Chopra has succeeded in having placed the Buddha as much much more than a Godman and much much lesser than a God.The true teacher who has no knowledge of happiness but the way to consiousness where no sorrow or joy prevails. Just love and compassion.The probable cause of his demise is by no way heroic ,infact it is so matter of fact that it gives all human beings the faith that a Buddha resides within them and will emerge if we stop reacting .A must have to be read and reread to gain further insights everytime .

Great Book!
Erica Asahan wrote:

Definitely a new classic! I had to read this book twice. And I recommend it to all!

Buddha
This was not an interesting book and I had to struggle to finish it.It was a depressing view of Buddha's life.I would not recommend it.

Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment
I have the utmost respect for Mr. Chopra but I was disapointed in this book. I started it and put it down several times determined to read itbut it was not very engaging. It presents many different theories in asomewhat disjointed way. The second half of the book is clearly easier to read but as a whole I did not feel as "enlightened" about Buddha's life as I had hoped to be. ... Read more

Book Description
The author of the New York Times-bestselling Anna Pigeon mystery series beckons her readers to share her spiritual search for meaning in life.

During her life as an actor, a writer, an adventuress, a non-believer, and a seeker of truth and amusement, Nevada Barr has been cursed and blessed with the question of "why?" Though the things she wanted to know were mostly in the realm of the unknowable, she sought answers through reading, thinking, and talking-looking outward for signs and truths. But she found that while her quest for meaning provided inspiration, it afforded little in the way of proof.

It was then that she began to look inward for answers. Seeking Enlightenment . . . Hat by Hat is the beguiling story of her journey from arrogance and atheism toward humility and a sense of being part of something greater than herself. Hat by hat, step by step, Nevada Barr leads readers down her path to enlightenment by sharing personal episodes, some of them funny and revealing, others painfully honest. Each chapter offers a truth or an answer forged through experience and deep reflection, and a nugget of insight certain to encourage thought and discussion among readers who may, in turn, find their own spiritual language. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

So easy to relate to
I've read all Nevada Barr's books not so much for their stories/plots but because I love Ms. Barr's, and her protagonist Anna Pigeon's, attitudes and views on life.I first took it out of the library, read it twice, and then decided I wanted my own copy so I could reread it whenever I wanted.

For me, this book is about Ms. Barr's journey to reconcile and integrate spirituality, without becoming a religious fanatic, with her down-to-earth psyche and firm footing in physical reality.This is something I've been working on for most of my life, and I'm astonished how similar my thoughts have been to Ms. Barr's. The thought paths she takes you through in this book, and the clarity of her conclusions, helped me focus on who I am and how to make the best of my time here.I am so glad I found this book.

A new side of Nevada Barr
Having read all of Nevada's novels, I didn't expect to be surprised by her spiritual journey, but I was.It was interesting to find out how much of Anna Pidgeon's personality and personal history was based on Nevada's own and how much was very different.Her insights are very real, down to earth and unlike most spiritual guides.I didn't always agree, but she made me examine some assumptions from a new viewpoint.

Beautiful, thoughtful, profound
This book touches deeply and lovingly on many of today's spiritual issues.I bought copies of this book for all the people in my life that I care about.

On things that really matter
I found Nevada's book to be honest, well written, with a subtle sense of humor so needed in works dealing with religion and enlightenment. One of my favorite lines: "... I would occasionally run across someone who seemed to truly know God, and I realized that religion, like a bad toupee or a face-lift gone sour, is only obvious when it's done badly." This book did not do well commercially because honest well-written books dealing with things that really matter don't sell. But this book is very good, very important. It helped me on my return journey to God.

Mystery Writer Shares Her Spiritual Musings
In this collection of short essays, Ms. Barr shares her spiritual experiences which are sometimes witty and sometimes thought-provoking. Some of the stories may even inspire readers to do some soul searching of their own, as they relate to some of the deeper issues Ms. Barr shares.These issues include social conciousness and responsibility to the global community; the importance of keeping commitments to others as well as tooneself; and striving to be a good person, not only for the hope of redemption of one's soul in the hereafter, but for the benefits received during one's lifetime.

Ms. Barr shares some unusual thoughts regarding spirituality that other seekers might also find enlightening.Those readers who are already on a well-defined spiritual path may not agree with some or many of the ideas Ms Barr presents, but reading this book is still a good opportunity to explore the musings of a fellow traveler on the spiritual journey of life.
... Read more

Book Description
This book is unique in its explanation of the relationship between the multifaceted symbolism of Tibetan Buddhist deity images and meditative practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Accessible introduction to Tibetan Buddhist art of thangka
If you've ever seen Tibetan Buddhist art and wondered who or what is represented in these colorful paintings (known in Tibetan as thangka), what the various objects in the paintings symbolize, or how the paintings are used in the practice of Buddhism, Images of Enlightenment may answer your questions.Concisely written for a western audience of general readers by two English students of Tibetan Buddhism, this book also provides an introduction to basic Buddhist principles and practice, as well as a brief history of the Tibetan school and short biographies of some of its greatest teachers.

Images of Enlightenment is organized around 32 full-color plates, paintings by Andy Weber, a UK-based artist trained in Nepal by refugee Tibetan painters and now himself a widely traveled and respected teacher in Europe and North America. (See the artist's website for more examples of his work and his current teaching schedule.)Each chapter of the book begins with a theme, followed by explanations of the handful of paintings that best represent them.The first chapter on the life of the Buddha and the basics of Buddhist philosophy, for example, includes descriptions of paintings of the Buddha, stupas, and the Wheel of Life.

As an introductory text, the authors cannot hope to cover the nearly 200 deities of Tibetan Buddhism.They manage, though, to provide an informative, well-written, and properly illustrated volume covering some of the most popular images.If you'd like to learn more about the methods and materials used in painting thangka, you might like to see Jackson and Jackson's Tibetan Thangka Painting: Methods & Materials. The paintings used in this book, while well executed, are quite simple and not cluttered with many of the background items found in many thangka.There is, therefore, little in this book explaining many of the minor elements of Tibetan painting.For a more thorough treatment of symbolism and iconography, see Robert Beer's A Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols.If you'd like to see larger and more elaborately and finely detailed thangka, have a look at two collections in Romio Shrestha's Celestial Gallery and Goddesses of the Celestial Gallery.

Especially recommended for students, scholars, and practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism.
Written by experts who spent years living in India to study Tibetan Buddhism and its art, Images of Enlightenment: Tibetan Art in Practice is a straightforward, plain-terms guide to the rich history, legends, and spirituality expressed through Tibetan Buddhist sacred art. 32 full-color plates illustrate Images of Enlightenment, while the text describes the symbolic self-transformation and expressions of enlightenment depicted. Chapters survey different paths and aspects of Buddhism as expressed through art, including the Bodhisattva Path, and the Path of Bliss and Emptiness. Images of Enlightenment is especially recommended for students, scholars, and practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism.

Excellent Book on Tibetan Buddhism
Though I am an SGI Buddhist, Tibetan Buddhism intrigues me with their beautiful art.Mr. Landaw clearly describes each entity and Mr. Andy Weber beautifully illustrates in color each image.If you have ever wanted a deeper understanding into Tibetan images, I highly recommend this book

The Most Definitive Guide of Buddhist Deity
The most definitive guide to Buddhism. The deity are all beautifully illustrated in rich color, complete with the historical background of the deity that gain enormous popularity in the east.

It had all the answers that you had always wanted to ask in the past. For illustration why some deities look so wraughtful, fierce and the significance of those implements or objects they hold.

I like the most is the explaination on the deity background concise, full illustrated, very well elaborated and accurate description.

An indispensible guide! Highly recommended.

Excellent Insight into the Nature of Deity Yoga
This is an excellent book for all those interested in the practice of Deity Yoga. Written by Westerners with a very clear insight into the elements and art of the practice. ... Read more

Book Description
This is Ron's first book and a perennial favorite. Recommended by Norman Vincent Peale, with a comment by Werner Erhard, and a foreword by Ken Keyes Jr., this book is about bringing an enlightened condition to everyday life. It is composed of short, easy to digest chapters, straight to the point, and full of lasting value. Readers report reading and rereading this book over and over. Many people buy it in bulk to share with friends. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Step by Step Enlightenment!!
I did the est training in 1981 and had the experience of my mind shutting off and discovering that who I am is not my thoughts but the witness to my thougts. That's a start. Now comes the work. After that experience what became available was the possibility of watching your "mind" react to your day to day experiences and seeing that what you thought was a "real" reaction was just that, a mind reaction that you no longer had to follow. You could now look in the moment and see what was really wanted and needed. This book presents many concepts, like jealousy, and gives you an enlightened perspective that is very to the point and impactful. You can not go wrong in buying this book and absorbing what is in it. In fact, to fully absorb everything presented in this book and make it your own, so to speak, can take many years. Really! The stuff is that dense. If you are into expanding your awareness of yourself and how you percieve reality then this is a must read. Combine this with The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle for some real insights. Be aware that your "mind"/thought system will want to be right about how it has been percieving things and it is those reactions that you are confronting with this material.

Life Changing
This book helped put life in perspective. I believe everyone should read this book.

Great Book
The other day a friend asked me what was the most significant book I had read in my life....THIS IS IT. Smothermon's book is certainly not mainstream, and it contains the most densely packed wisdom of what life is about that I know of. Over the years, I have recomended this book to MANY people, and the feedback is fantastic. Get it.

Unsung classic -- Tells it like it IS!
I have read Dr. Smothermon's "Enlightenment" book many times and also pull it down from time to time to savor his dynamic writing style: 2-3 page chapters just sock it to you and move on.To the point.He describes the way the world ( and that includes us ) works and if you pay attention, are patient and read (and re-read) it with an open mindyou will get a lot of great insights to chew on.I've read his other books and they are also good, but this one, for me, is the classic.Thanks Ron!

Winning Through Enlightenment
Dr. Smothermon has transcended the boundaries of conventional perception of Self- genius!Don't buy it unless your IQ is 150+. ... Read more

Book Description
Over the centuries, Buddhism has responded to sexuality in a variety of fascinating ways, sometimes, suppressing the sexual urge, sometimes sublimating it, sometimes cultivating it, and, on the highest levels, transforming it. This book reveals how Buddhists, beginning with Shakyamuni Buddha himself, relate to the "inner fire" that drives humankind. Included are chapters on the Buddha's love life before his enlightenment and his later relationships with women, the tantric approach to sex among Buddhists of ancient India, Tibet, China, and Japan; Zen in the art of love; and a positive discussion of women and Buddhism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Interesting topic!
Big on all things Japanese, the author teaches in a Japanese University. I enjoyed his book. It is an intriguing topic. The puritan elders upheld that enlightenment and sexual activity are incompatible. However,
Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana) says that ruthless suppression of the natural propensity to seek union with a member of the opposite sex sours people, making them morbid, compulsive and neurotic. We should re-direct and transform our natural desires instead. Now the question is: are the teachings of the tantras to be taken literally or just imaginatively? In Tantric sex there is always a sense of detachment, an emphasis on transcending the physical form of one's partner, and focusing on his or her impersonal, universal aspects (see Sexual Secrets). Check out The Prayer Mat of the Flesh by Li Yu.

a very good book
Just for the record, my real name is D. Green. Now about the book...

This book was like nothing I have seen before on the subject of Buddhism. With that said, let me say that Stevens, even though he is a Westerner, has done a heck of a job breaking down the romanticized stereotypical Western view of Buddhism. What I mean is that, the author looks past the trendiness and glamour that is often associated with Buddhism and its followers in the west.

Stevens orchestrates a look into the uncovered side, the not so tready and not so glamorous side of the religion. He uncovers the reality. Buddhist nuns and monks indulging themselves in wild acts of passion. The common "Temple illnesses." Zen monks, their famous courtesans, and the children they fathered. The wild sex lives of past Dali Lamas. And even the sex life of the historical Buddha (of course, before he realized his Buddha nature). Its all within these pages. But do keep in mind that this is only a review.

What Stevens' also does, which is as equally important, in addition to uncovering the truth, is provide just explanations
to why all these things happened. The Book reminds readers that nothing is never as it appears to be, which oddly enough seems to be very apart of the Buddhist prospective and belief system. Thus, making this book an important read for any one who is a Buddhist (especially Western Buddhist) or anyone who is remotely interested in the religion/philosophy.

I would not be surprized if this very book is banned in certain parts of the world. ...

A very good book
Just for the record, my real name is D. Green. Now about the book...

This book was like nothing I have seen before on the subject of Buddhism. With that said, let me say that Stevens, even though he is a Westerner, has done a heck of a job breaking down the romanticized stereotypical Western view of Buddhism. What I mean is that, the author looks past the trendiness and glamour that is often associated with Buddhism and its followers in the west.

Stevens orchestrates a look into the uncovered side, the not so tready and not so glamorous side of the religion. He uncovers the reality. Buddhist nuns and monks indulging themselves in wild acts of passion. The common "Temple illnesses." Zen monks, their famous courtesans, and the children they fathered. The wild sex lives of past Dali Lamas. And even the sex life of the historical Buddha (of course, before he realized his Buddha nature). Its all within these pages. But do keep in mind that this is only a review.

What Stevens' also does, which is as equally important, in addition to uncovering the truth, is provide just explanations
to why all these things happened. The Book reminds readers that nothing is never as it appears to be, which oddly enough seems to be very apart of the Buddhist prospective and belief system. Thus, making this book an important read for any one who is a Buddhist (especially Western Buddhist) or anyone who is remotely interested in the religion/philosophy... ... Read more

Book Description
Emmanuel Eze collects into one convenient and controversial volume the most important and influential writings on race that the European Enlightenment produced. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Significant texts, annoying lack of citations & bibliography
Eze hopes to spur, among researchers, teachers, and students, a "critical engagement in the area of race" following the model of feminist critics of the Enlightenment. This collection, which contains thecentral primary texts for that project, demonstrates the value of delvinginto the heart of (to use Eze's working title for the book) "theracist Enlightenment."

Eze argues that the Enlightenment's raciallegacy was a philosophical vocabulary ("race,""progress," "civilization," "savagery,""nature") that reinforced and presupposed important"analytical categories" adopted by subsequent scientific,philosophical, and anthropological studies of race. The book focuses ontexts from the last decades of the seventeenth century; only four (byLinneaus, Buffon, and Hume) were published before 1770 and just one(Hegel's Lectures on the Philosophy of World History) after 1800. Eze ismainly concerned with the triumvirate of Hume, Hegel, and (especially)Kant: the other readings provide background to and display the influenceson and the influences of those philosophers.

Unfortunately, most ofEze's selections are too brief to help readers understand the"analytical categories" of race that are central to Eze's racialcritique of the Enlightenment. Many crucial theoretical notions are passedover or covered in little detail in the primary texts and in Eze'seditorial material. Teachers or students pursuing a deeper investigationwill have to look elsewhere, and they will lament Eze's editorial practiceof alluding to important passages without providing citations, the absenceof detailed citations of the texts anthologized, and the lack of acomprehensive bibliography of primary and secondary literature.

Incredibly interesting
This book collects, for the first time, writings by all of the major authors during the period of Enlightenment. Most readers will be shocked by the severe lack of politcal-correctness displayed by these writers, butnone-the-less it gives one an accurate idea of what Europeans firstimpressions of non-whites were. Africa, the anarchaic tribal continent, wasseen as both a wonder and a threat. Philosophers like Hegel were at onceamazed and revolted to discover that these "strange creatures" onthe "myterious continent" had yet to develop the wheel at thetime of European expansion on that continent. Fascinating, shocking, butabove all, a must for any true student of The Enlightenment.

A Must For Professors, and Students of Philosophy
I read this book in my African-American Philosophy class.I couldn't believe the writings of Hume, Kant and Hegel.I never stop to think that their philosophical systems were exclusive to Europeans. TheEnlightenment philosophiers attitudes were shaped by travelers stories,geographical location, and lack of understanding about other culturesbesides their own.

Hegel give a justification for"colonialsim" and "imperialism" that will "knockyour socks off."Kant and Hume recognizes Africas as "inferiorto whites."

This book is a must for philosophiers.I believe itwill help students to understand the "exclusive" and arrogantattitudes of Enlightenment philosophiers. ... Read more

Book Description
The 18th-century Enlightenment was one of the most exciting and significant currents of European culture. Battling against tyranny, ignorance, and superstition, it formulated the ideals of thought, religion, and expression, the value of science, and the pursuit of progress. Enlightenment thinkers undermined the ancien regime and provided the ideas for the French Revolution. Modern scholarship, however, has shown it was a more complex and ambiguous movement than commonly recognized. This book, now in a fully updated second edition, sympathetically explores the complexities of the Enlightenment. Synthesizing and evaluating the latest scholarship, it offers a new and comprehensive vision of this many-faceted movement. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

not Porter's best book
I recently discovered the late Roy Porter through his last book Flesh in the Age of Reason: The Modern Foundations of Body and Soul. After devouring that book I ordered both The Enlightenment and The Creation of the Modern World: The Untold Story of the British Enlightenment. The latter book lives up to my expectations but I was disappointed in the shorter book, which was no doubt constrained by the publisher's expectations since it is part of a series.
My chief complaint is that because the book is so short, it seems to assume that the reader is already familiar with the main characters of period. For me this was only partially true. Therefore, I would not recommend this as a introduction to the subject.

Impressive, but...
It appears that Roy Porter has a full-length book on British Enlightenment published by Penguin, and my review refers to that book and not this one, although both have the same title.

Impressive
130 pages of endnotes in fine print for under 500 pages of text, plus another 77 pages (again in fine print) of bibliography, and then a full index - this book is a scholar's dream.Yet its easy style is aimed at a wide readership too.

Who can doubt the seminal role of Britain in the Enlightenment?The French may have started it.But Britain carried the movement forward.I'm impressed by the evidence.

Porter gives prominent place to the roles of Hume, Locke, and especially Priestley, with justice.Also mentioned are Gibbon, Swift, Malthus, and Samuel Johnson, and of course Adam Smith.Ben Franklin was a giant of the Enlightenment, but not of BRITISH Enlightenment, although he spent many adult years living in London, and knew many of these men.(Indeed Franklin brought Priestley over to America.)So Franklin is not covered in depth here. He was American.

This is the kind of book I'd love to read on the couch in many a long Canadian winter night.I also recommend Jenny Uglow's "The Lunar Men," which covers similar but not the same ground (and has much to say about Priestley too, who was also a "Lunar Man") ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
The Science of Enlightenment
Shinzen Young

Is enlightenment a myth? Or is it real? On The Science of Enlightenment, you will learn that the liberated state is as real as your sensations right now. For it is through the investigation of your own experience that you can awaken to clear insight and happiness independent of conditions: the state of enlightenment. Through his expertise in both science and spirituality, meditation teacher Shinzen Young demystifies the principles of awakening contained in the world's great spiritual traditions, and shows you how to use them in your own life. Here - in a 12-tape course covering traditional teachings, scientific insights, and practical instruction - you will test for yourself the great wisdom traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Jewish mysticism, Sufism, Hinduism, shamanism, and many others. Why is "single-pointed concentration" so highly regarded on every contemplative path? How do you bypass inner blocks for a state of highest presence? How do you know if your meditation practice is working? Shinzen Young elucidates these topics with precision and intelligence, demonstrating why he is regarded as one of the West's most articulate and understandable teachers of classical mystical experience.The search for awakening is not limited to a chosen few. It is a field open for you to investigate - once you possess the "inner technologies" to do so. Now you can begin that investigation, with The Science of Enlightenment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

The Science of Enlightenment
Meditation CD's, that need to be listen to a few times for the average person. A core value product to have, for the psychological well been of a person. It certainly as had a positive effect on myself. Very therapeutic.

LIFE ALTERING
I hesitated to get this at first. Mainly because I'd never heard of the author, Shinzen Young. But I was sufficiently intrigued by the title; the attainment of enlightenment being a lifelong interest. Several months ago, after listening to the audible sample, I decided to buy it. I'm so glad I did! Science of Enlightenment is an extraordinary, and life altering work.

I listened to Science of Enlightenment twice. Both times, I was delighted by the uplifted feeling I received while listening to it.I've come to understand through this audio book, that seasoned meditators are always in a state of meditation to varying degrees.It seems that the crystalline clarity and sheer power of Science of Enlightenment stems from the fact that the author is in a state of lucid meditation while speaking. Perhaps accounting for the inspired, positive energy I get from listening to it.

From searching on the internet, I discovered that Science of Enlightenment, and many other lectures by Shinzen Young, have never been put into a book form. In fact, the only book I was able to find is a new one on overcoming pain. So the probability of Shinzen Young doing aggressive, national book signing tours, at this point at least, seems unlikely. This non commercial approach makes his work all the more appealing and real.

I've read many books on the topic of meditation and enlightenment, and even practiced at a couple of Zendos in New York. Although these experiences were excellent, I still hadn't been able to get on a regular meditation schedule. Listening to Science of Enlightenment, gave me a deep understanding of meditation, enlightenment, religion and related topics. As a result, I've finally been meditating, which has profoundly impacted my life. I look forward to the extraordinary long term effects, which Young describes, after a few years of meditating.

Everyone feels pain but not everyone suffers
This audio series is of extraordinary value to the western mind, not only in terms of presentation but in terms of perspective. The teachings that Shinzen Young expounds upon are subtle details that often times missed during meditative practice and philosophical understandings of Eastern religions.

The series is broken down into 14 CDs with 2 sessions per disc. Some of the CDs feature focused meditations which are approriately placed according to the teachings he has covered.

I have a long commute and listen to this series all the way to medical school. It is one of the most gripping audio series that I've ever owned - just recently I found myself at Shoprite's parking lot for over an hour, unwilling to leave my car until I had finished hearing the session.

Shinzen Young covers the most minute aspects of buddhist/hindu meditative teachings. The only failure of this series is to communicate that Buddha and his meditative practices come straight from Hinduism ( as Buddha was a Hindu himself ). The "Buddhist" concepts that Shinzen Young often talks about are spoken in Sanskrit - the ancient language of the Hindus in India. Shinzen Young failure to present that Buddhism is a DIRECT extension of Hinduism, only compounds the misconception that Buddhist teachings are somehow a unique derived from Buddha and not from its proper source - Hinduism.

This however, does not undermind the didactic value of the series. Shinzen Young makes very clear to logical and skeptical minds where Buddhist/Hindu philosophy stands. The meditative practices are extremely helpful in self-experientially confirming the words of Shinzen Young. One profound lesson that comes of this series is that everyone feels pain but not every one suffers. For those who need guidance in how to deal with the tumultous nature of life or seek that morsel of happiness that is forever elusive - you will not be let down by Shinzen Young.

What a surprise
I was also impressed with this work.It ties together many aspects of meditation and spirituality that I previously saw as separate, and got me many steps further down my own path.Young relates difficult concepts with amazing clarity and insight drawn from his own experiences.Born American, studying Buddhism as theology and then exploring Zen practice later in life, he brings an open and expansive view to the theory and practice of meditation.He also brings to light the role of meditation in Christianity and a number of other religious traditions.This is a great place to start your journey, or a good stopping place if you feel you still need to locate yourself within the larger tradition.

Clear, Engaging, Compelling
Shinzen Young explains meditation and the mystic tradition: Its history, what it is, what it does, how it works, and -- most importantly -- how to begin. As he says on one tape, he provides the lecture and then it's up to the student to do the lab work. After listening to this set of tapes you'll be very well-prepared for the meditation lab. ... Read more

Book Description
Enlightenment, the cosmic experience of universal unity, is a notoriously elusive concept in Zen. Here, the renowned scholar Heinrich Dumoulin traces the development of Zen and the concept of enlightenment from its origins in India through its development in China to its fruition in Japan. Delineating the Buddhist origins, as well as the Taoist and yogic influences, he traces the historical path Zen has followed, with special emphasis given to the development of koan practice and the writings of the great Japanese Zen master Dogen (1200–1253). He then brings the experience to life by presenting, in his own words, the enlightenment experiences of a number of contemporary practitioners of Zen. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The academics of enlghtenment
The German Jesuit scholar Heinrich Dumoulin produced a formidable 2 volume history of Zen:
Zen Buddhism: A History, India & China
Zen Buddhism, Volume 2: A History (Japan) (Treasures of the World's Religions)

This shorter work by him, although it provides some history of Zen, does soonly with a focus on explaining, in an academic fashion, the role of enlightenment in Zen. It is derived from lectures he gave during or before 1976.

I'd suggest keeping in mind, if one does read this book, that, as Dumoulin observes, one of the greatest Zen masters, Hui-Neng, could not read or write, let alone understand such a scholarly presentation of Zen. Nevertheless, this book may provide some context for understanding Zen Buddhism and its practices. Even so, its coverage of contemporary enlightenment experiences, centering on the forced methods of Harada school, will seem unusual to any one studying Soto Zen: it centering did to me. Of course, if you are an academician, this book may be ideal for you, although even then you may find the chapter of Dogen's metaphysics tough going, perhaps less so depending on your familiarity with Mahayana Buddhism.

Some of the useful historical background includes:
- Indian roots, noting the similarities between Yoga and zazen (e.g. the lotus pose)
- legendary founding in China by Bodhidharma
- the Mahayana foundation of Zen
- how Taoism influenced the development of Zen
- Hui-Neng and enlightenment as sudden not gradual
- Lin-Chi and the beginning of Rinzai school
- the beginning of the use of systematic methods: zazen and koans
- Zen's entry into Japan
- Dogen and the Soto sect: his emphasis on zazen and the metaphysics of the Buddhanature

The historical elements I found well-presented and useful.

The explanation of Dogen's teaching I found too academic and rather hard to follow (where's Brad Warner where we need him, for which see the less complete but considering easier to follow
Sit Down and Shut Up: Punk Rock Commentaries on Buddha, God, Truth, Sex, Death, and Dogen's Treasury of the Right Dharma Eye)

Dumoulin mentions the early Chinese Zen poem "Faith in Mind" that contains many Taoist elements. You can read a commentary on this poem that can also guide your Zen sitting practice by Master Sheng-yen in
Faith in Mind: A Commentary on Seng Ts'an's Classic.

If you practice Soto Zen, you may want to skip or at least lightly browse, the final 2 chapters on Contemporary Accounts and Satori. It will seem baffling and probably quite contrary to what your Soto Zen master has taught. Whether anyone actually can have a liberating experience of any value using the approach of the Harada school I almost doubt; can the master really recognize a meaningful satori of the disciple or is there some sort of collusion involved? I suppose I'm too suspicious but my limited practice has been Soto and quite undramatic compared to what is described here. Nevertheless, I feel I have made some progress in experiencing nonduality (where am I?) and all without the pressures of the Harada approach. I suppose you can read these 2 chapters and decide what you make of it.

All in all, this relatively short book nevertheless is quite informative and, despite being so scholarly, may be of help...if it doesn't fill your head up with lots of facts and philosophy you may well not need if you mean to do Zen practice. Hopefully, if you don't mean to get a college degree in Zen, you can forgot much of it soon after you finish reading but hold onto enough to provide some context for your practice.
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Book Description
The Enlightenment is that crucial, and profoundly exciting, period between the late seventeenth century and the French Revolution. It was the great age of rationalism and tolerance, an age of boundless curiosity about the physical universe and the nature of the human mind, an age that rejected
superstition in favor of observation and experiment to arrive at the truth--an age, in fact, that laid the foundations for the world in which we live.
With nearly four hundred illustrations selected from a wide array of sources, the book tells the fascinating story of the men and women of the Enlightenment in their search for definition and redefinition of the values of their time. Included are the range of ideas they explored--from
coffee-house conversations to astronomy, from voyages of discovery to the investigation of dreams, from the first dictionaries and encyclopedias to new attitudes on marriage and women's rights. Theirs was an enthralling journey that reflected the intellectual revolution that transformed human
consciousness. ... Read more

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Bring Enlightenment to the Conference Table
Do you want to add depth to your corporate meeting or business conference?Open or close the meeting by passing out these cards (face down), then have each participant read each card.Gary Renard's thoughts may not stick with every person in the room, but I can promise you this.Someone at your meeting will never forget the moment, and you will set yourself apart from every business leader around.

The Enlightenment Cards have a relevant purpose to enrich one's daily life...to give pause for one to reflect on one's goal for the day...to set a positive tone to today's crazy world...to complement one's spiritual life in a simple and thought-provoking manner.

I'm thinking that these cards would be an ideal aid to the teacher in the classroom or the mentor or the facilitator.

Amusing, Incisive and Profound
"Dear friends, I am honored to present to you the enlightenment thoughts that my teachers in the book The Disappearance of the Universe asked me to pass along in the form of these cards. Arten and Pursah, also known as St. Thaddeus and St. Thomas, are very happy to help lead you to an enlightened mind, and I'm honored to play my part in sharing this message." - Gary Renard

Based on his popular book The Disappearance of the Universe: Straight Talk about Illusions, Past Lives, Religion, Sex, Politics, and the Miracles of Forgiveness, Enlightenment Cards is a 72-card deck that shares incisive and timely wisdom for this age.

Each card features a thought from The Disappearance of the Universe, which can be used for contemplation, or when you feel you need a dose of sage advice from All That Is.

Some of the illuminating, irreverent wisdom found in Enlightenment Cards includes:

"The world needs another religion like it needs a bigger hole in the ozone layer."

"For God to create the imperfect either means that He was imperfect, or that He deliberately made those who were, so that they could screw up, be punished by Him, and suffer here on psycho planet."

"There isn't really anyone else out there. There is only one ego appearing as many."

"Forgiveness is where the rubber meets the road. Without forgiveness, metaphysics is useless."

"Whenever you condemn another, your salvation is off to a flying stop."

"Misery loves company, but that doesn't mean you have to accept the invitation."

"The nonsensical tragedy of duality is considered to be normal by all modern societies, which are themselves mad as a hatter."

"The people of the world will never live in peace until the people of the world have inner peace."

"You think the universe is evolving...but it's really just spinning its wheels, repeating the same pattern over and over in different forms."

"A jetliner is always going off course, but through constant correction, it arrives at its destination. So will you arrive at yours."

I've had Gary Renard's book The Disappearance of the Universe for over a year now, but haven't read it. I think I allowed a negative comment by someone who skimmed the book to influence my decision to read it. However, after looking at these cards, I knew instantly that there was truth in Enlightenment Cards. Their message is amusing, clear, penetrating, and confirming. I now look forward to reading Mr. Renard's book because of this deck.

If you'd like to transcend duality, live in peace, and correct your course, I highly recommend Enlightenment Cards.

(To see 6 images from this deck, visit the Reviews--Decks section at JanetBoyer.com) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

First Rate Work by a Prominent Philosopher
Ernst Cassirer was one of the more important philosophers of the 20th Century, although his work is less well-known in this country than on the Continent.Cassirer was also a Kant scholar who wrote an influential biography of Kant "Kant's Leben und Lehre" (Kant's Life and Teachings).This book, written in the mid-1930s, but not available in English until much later, is perhaps still the best serious survey of the Enlightenment, with more emphasis on the German Enlightenment than we are used to seeing.(The term 'enlightenment' itself comes from the German word "Aufklaerung"). Unlike many of the more recent writers on the Enlightenment, Cassirer is sympathetic to the Enlightenment enterprise and does not have an axe to grind (Peter Gay and Lester Crocker come to mind).Although well-written, and the subject is interesting to anyone concerned about the growth of the modern world, this is not an easy book: Cassirer presents a more nuanced view of the Enlightment and the philosophes than even most educated readers are used to and the reader must actively think about the arguments presented.The effort is absolutely worthwhile.

Classic Synopsis of Voltaire vs. Pascal
Yes! Amazing how the eighteenth century is still here today, in our many institutions and political ideals. Cassirer's heady analysis of the culture, debates and ideals of the time informs our current cultural mosaic, where rap lives side by side with the Lincoln Center. I especially return to his synopsis of the debate about faith in the XVIIIth c., that centers on Voltaire's attack against Pascal. When the thoughts of moral titans collide, the sparks endure. ... Read more

Book Description
Debate over the meaning of 'Enlightenment'began in the eighteenth century and has continued unabated until our own times. This period saw the emergence of arguments on the nature of man, truth, the place of God, and the international circulation of ideas, people and gold. In the second edition of her book, Dorinda Outram studies the Enlightenment as a global phenomenon, comparing it against the period's broader social changes. The new edition also features anew introduction and chapter on slavery, and the bibliography and short biographies have been extended. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good with Some Limitations: 3.5
Books in this series are supposed to be written as introductions to important topics in European history, accessible to undergraduates or even advanced high school students.This book doesn't really meet these requirements.The Enlightenment is structured as a series of linked essays on important topics related to the Enlightenment.These include the social context of the Enlightenment, government and the Enlightenment, gender and the Enlightenment, etc.There is a short introductory chapter which is primarily devoted to historiography of the Enlightenment.The essays are generally quite good but don't really provide the needed overview or basic narrative to accomplish the stated aims for books in this series.This book is most useful as a series of summaries of recent scholarship on the Enlightenment and can be used most usefully by someone who already has significant knowledge in this area.For teachers, I'd recommend using this book as an ancillary to a basic narrative text or even in conjunction with something like Peter Gay's magisterial overview of the Enlightenment.For general readers, this book is most useful as a review of recent scholarship.
To the extent that this book has a theme, it would be the increasing appreciation of the diversity and complexity of the Enlightenment.Outram takes pains to show Enlightenment positions are being more variable than often presented.Following the work of others, she is concerned with rebutting or undermining what has been regarded as a canonical view derived from scholars like Peter Gay that the Enlightenment can be summarized as a liberal reform program.For Outram, as for others, The Enlightenment as a unitary phenomenon does not exist.She, like others, also objects to the tendency to align the Enlightenment with a relatively small group of French intellectuals.Much of this is well taken, and Outram's individual essays are very informative.The discussions of government and the Enlightenment, religion and the Enlightenment, and science and the Enlightenment are particularly good.
On the other hand, there problems with some of her thematic analysis.While the Enlightenment cannot perhaps be easily summarized, at least not in the way suggested by scholars like Peter Gay, the concept retains considerable power and integrity.This is implicitly acknowledged in the title of this book, which is after all, The Enlightenment, not Enlightenments.Implicit in Outram's discussions are recurrent themes such as the importance of reason, skepticism towards received authority, the desire to use knowledge to improve the human condition, etc., which are stated by people like Gay to be basic unifying features of the Enlightenment.Outram's discussions add nuance to traditional views but don't contradict them, and in some ways implicitly endorse them.I think Outram overstates the extent to which recent scholarship has qualified views of the Enlightenment.The recent emphasis on greater geographic variation of the Enlightenment is an example.Peter Gay himself made a good deal out of American participation in the Enlightenment and he was hardly the first scholar to do so.Smith, several Americans, and Kant have long been considered important figures of the Enlightenment.Since when have Glasgow, tidewater Virginia, and Konigsberg been part of the heartland of Europe.Outram disparages the emphasis on French intellectuals yet her own text repeatedly cites the experience and writings of Voltaire, Diderot, etc., undercutting her explicit point.
While Outram is a careful scholar and writer, she also commits some missteps.Her discussion of Hume's epistemology as part of a critique of 18th century science is somewhat offbase.She presents Hume's views correctly but incompletely.Hume thought of himself as carrying out a Newtonian program of research in human psychology and far from undercutting the validity of scientifically generated knowledge, he placed it in a privileged position.Her discussion of 18th century voyages of exploration and the tendency of European intellectuals to project utopian visions onto Pacific island societies is astute but she overlooks the fact there was probably a significant kernal of truth in reports of the utopian nature of these cultures.Because of their biological isolation, these societies lacked many of the epidemic diseases that plagued the rest of the world.For example, a high percentage of Cook's crew probably had disfiguring smallpox scars, something that would have been unknown in Polynesia prior to contact with Europeans.

An Intelligent and Concise Overview
Most history books tend to either be too long and in-depth on a topic of interest or too brief.This book is neither, which is especially impressive given that it clocks in under 200 pages and covers, essentially, a century.
Outram succeeds in her basic layout of the book and in her lack of "kiddie gloves" in respect to her audience.She opens the book with a discussion of differing interpretations of the Enlightenment, in particular an essay contest in a Berlin newspaper in 1785.Outram begins with a discussion of Kant's response to the question, "What is Enlightenment?"Throughout the book, the scholar responds to shortcomings of other historical analyses of the period and explores, in short, 15-page sections, specific questions regarding the Enlightenment.Outram wastes no time diving into the complex morass of the eighteenth century.Writing in clear, lucid prose with a quick style, Outram brings to light new ideas on the Enightenment while responding to more traditional interpretations in due course.
The history professor who is directing my seminar on Religious Toleration in Renaissance and Reformation Europe recommended this book.When I become a high school teacher, I'm pretty sure this is a text I will use. ... Read more

Book Description
Science and the Enlightenment is a general history of eighteenth-century science covering both the physical and life sciences. It places the scientific developments of the century in the cultural context of the Enlightenment and reveals the extent to which scientific ideas permeated the thought of the age. The book takes advantage of recent scholarship, which is rapidly changing our understanding of science during the eighteenth century. In particular it describes how science was organized into fields that were quite different from those we know today. Professor Hankins's work is a much needed addition to the literature on eighteenth-century science. His study is not technical; it will be of interest to all students of the Enlightenment and the history of science, as well as to the general reader with some background in science.Download Description
Science and the Enlightenment is a general history of eighteenth-century science covering both the physical and life sciences. It places the scientific developments of the century in the cultural context of the Enlightenment and reveals the extent to which scientific ideas permeated the thought of the age. The book takes advantage of recent scholarship, which is rapidly changing our understanding of science during the eighteenth century. In particular it describes how science was organized into fields that were quite different from those we know today. Professor Hankins's work is a much needed addition to the literature on eighteenth-century science. His study is not technical; it will be of interest to all students of the Enlightenment and the history of science, as well as to the general reader with some background in science. ... Read more

Book Description
A distinguished team of contributors examines the writings of David Hume, Adam Smith, Thomas Reid, Adam Ferguson, Colin Maclaurin and other Scottish thinkers, in philosophy, natural theology, economics, anthropology, natural science and law. The contributors also relate the Scottish Enlightenment to its historical context and assess its impact and legacy in Europe, America and beyond. The volume is of interest to a wide range of readers in philosophy, theology, literature and the history of ideas.Download Description
The Cambridge Companion to the Scottish Enlightenment offers a philosophical perspective on an eighteenth-century movement that has been profoundly influential on western culture. A distinguished team of contributors examines the writings of David Hume, Adam Smith, Thomas Reid, Adam Ferguson, Colin Maclaurin and other Scottish thinkers, in fields including philosophy, natural theology, economics, anthropology, natural science and law. In addition, the contributors relate the Scottish Enlightenment to its historical context and assess its impact and legacy in Europe, America and beyond. The result is a comprehensive and accessible volume that illuminates the richness, the intellectual variety and the underlying unity of this important movement. It will be of interest to a wide range of readers in philosophy, theology, literature and the history of ideas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

One of the great cultural movements in the world
The editor Alexander Broadie is Professor of Logic and Rhetoric at Glasgow University- a chair once occupied by Adam Smith author of "Wealth of Nations".This book, "The Scottish Enlightenment", written for the general reader, is a great treatise on a most astonishing period of Scottish history during the 18th century.Broadie writes; "that what gave the Scottish Enlightenment its character as a distinct historical movement was the complex set of relations with a group of geniuses and other immensely creative people living in each others intellectual pockets.Broadie and his colleagues write about the leading Scottish luminaries in the fields of science, philosophy, history, economics, and the arts.The ideas of Hume, Smith, Reid, Ferguson, Hutcheson, Kames, Turnbull, and others had an immense influence on the great thinkers of Europe as well as our founding fathers here in America.

The term "Enlightenment" suggests emergence from darkness.There are two essential features of the enlightenment.First, a demand that people think for themselves.You do not take ideas on faith but you inquire study and observe for yourself.Second, social virtue of tolerance of ideas.The state and church cannot punish one for their ideas.This allows literati of men to meet and exchange ideas on a plethora of subjects and to spread these ideas through their writings so that other literati in Europe can comment and react to them.Thinking becomes a civil activity with ideas in the public domain.These men love liberty and are looking to build a better society for humanity.They believe that if morality is about anything it is about - protecting the civilized values vested in society.No wonder these men had a great influence on our founding fathers!The Scottish Enlightenment was Scotland's chief export to America.The consequences for the Scottish Enlightenment were much theorizing about society and social change and the nature of freedom.

If you are truly interested in a classical education put this book on the top of your reading list!I recommend this book for anyone interested in philosophy, history, political science, and history of America's founding era.
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Book Description
The perfect book for readers who are interested in Taoism and want a little daily inspiration.

The Tao of Daily Life combines ancient Eastern wisdom with practical application-perfect for busy Western readers! Derek Lin, Taoist master and expert in Eastern philosophy, brings his deep knowledge of this time-honored Chinese spiritual thought system into the twenty-first century. "There is one simple reason for the Tao to have survived through the ages intact: it works," writes Lin. "The principles of the Tao are extremely effective when applied to life. The philosophy as a whole is nothing less than a practical, useful guide to living life in a way that is smooth, peaceful, and full of energy." Using the powerful medium of stories and short dharma talks, Lin illuminates the Taoist secrets and engages the reader in their inherent wisdom. As a result, the reader of The Tao of Daily Life will notice certain changes, including:

- being more composed and more at ease in various situations;
- being able to handle challenges and difficulties with less effort and achieving better results;
- experiencing greater power and clarity in all areas of life.

The spiritual journey, as described by Derek Lin, becomes the most worthwhile exploration anyone can take. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Excellent Insight into Dynamic Uses of Taoist Thought
Derek Lin does an exceptional job at interpreting and discussing Taoist thoughts and parables that can guide you in thought and action.I came by Taoism through the course of academia but now find the Tao to be an active part of my life.This book reflects how Taoism is applied in such a manner.Each chapter leaves a great deal of room for personal interpretation and introspection.Simply from a philosophical point of view, this book can lead to great discussions.

Tao applied to your Daily Life
I bought this book after being introduced to taoism on the author's website half a year ago. The book is a collection of parables (short stories) followed by a longer explanation by Derek Lin for each.

The parables have themes on loving others, dealing with our ego, why unfortunate events can be a blessing in disguise, handling negative people, and finding joy in simple things, for example. The parables are often funny, extremely insightful, and easy to remember for when you actually need the insight in real life situations.

This book has given me an extremely large amount of understanding and inspiration in my own life. It is well written so that those of any religion (or lack of) can greatly benefit from its wisdom and actually incorporate it into your life. The author states this in the book and I found it to be completely true.

I would put this book at the top of the list for anyone wanting to improve their life or move past the daily trivialities and frustrations that can inhabit our lives. For anyone interested in Taoism this is also a perfect companion to applying the Tao Te Ching to the daily life.

One of the best Taoism book
I bought a few Tao (Tao de ching) books. This one is the best! It's very easy to understand and relate to our daily life. The explanation from the point of Taoism is absolutely brilliant. ... Read more

Book Description
These collections of encouraging thoughts and comforting words offer a fresh perspective on the human experience in a striking format that features details from Japanese prints and textiles and four-color metallic ink. Bringing together a wide range of voices, ancient and modern, from both the East and West, each volume serves as a powerful reminder that the key to a contented life lies with the individual. Theological and philosophical thoughts from Greek mythology, Eastern and Western religion, proverbs, art, and literature offer wisdom, inspiration, and solace. Among the featured leaders, philosophers, artists, and scientists are William Butler Yeats, Salvador Dali, Benjamin Franklin, Mother Teresa, Plato, and Einstein. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)