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First published in 1990, East of Existentialism was written to
explore new perspectives on eternal questions such as 'Who am I?',
'Why am I here?', and 'Where am I going?'. The book brings together
insights from existentialism in the West and Hinduism, Buddhism,
and Taoism in the East, and presents practical case studies
throughout to show the student how apparently abstruse themes
relate to real-life situations. Divided into three parts, the first
considers major Western contributions to the themes of human nature
and destiny. The central section examines the connection between
existentialism in the West and dominant philosophical schools in
India and China. The last three chapters explore the relevance of
Eastern ideas to Western thought, not only to provide philosophical
theory but also to offer a greater understanding of moral and
social dilemmas and of practical living. A full glossary explains
the technical terms used in the book. East of Existentialism will
appeal to those with an interest in philosophy and religious
studies.
Living Philosophy: An Introduction to Moral Thought, third edition is a thoroughly revised and updated version of its highly successful and popular predecessor. Incorporating several brand new case studies and discussion points, the book introduces central questions in ethical theory to the student and assumes no previous knowledge of philosophy.
Each chapter deals with a particular ethical issue and has an accompanying case study designed to encourage discussion. New topics raised include genetically modified organisms (GMO), environmental ethics, bioethics and the human genome, as well as a new chapter on religious and cultural relativism in the light of September 11th. Ray Billington's style is at once refreshing and honest and his approach to the subject is always clear. The coverage of the book is tailored for any introductory course in ethics.
This criticism of theism, especially monotheism, questions the assumption that rejecting God means rejecting religion. Drawing on Western philosophical critiques of religion and non-theistic Eastern religions, Ray Billington shows how a religion without God could work. The concept of religion without God has informed not only the theories of Nietzsche, Kant and Spinoza, but also expressions of belief in Indian and Chinese religions-Hinduism, Theravada Buddhism Zen and Taoism. Concluding with a look at the "the future of faith," this is a wide ranging and lucidly-written look at what it means to "have faith" and how this is distinct from religious belief. Ray Billington is an experienced and respected author on Eastern religion and philosophy. His books include Understanding Eastern Philospophy, Living Philosophy and East of Existentialism, all published by Routledge. He also writes occasional journalism most notably as a contributor to The Guardian's 'Face to Faith' column. An ex-Methodist minister and onetime chaplain with the SAS, he has now retired from his post as Principal Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of the West of England.
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.
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.
Covers American history from Reconstruction through the first half
of Reagan's administration.
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