?yet another introduction to Buddhism
An interesting project from Routledge publishing house provides an introductory course to Buddhism.When I first received the information from the H-buddhism mailing list I thought ”why on earth do we need another introduction to Buddhism?“ There are quite many good introductions out there published in the past ten years, all contain up-to-date information and a balanced presentation of Buddhist thought, history, practice etc. Even with the growing interest in Buddhist studies, there is no real shortage in introductory books.But this book seems to be something different. (I haven‘t read it. I just comment on the information sent by the publishers). It is a complete package for teachers that contains, for the first time as far as I know, audio and electronic resources plus a model syllabus, and exam questions(!). And it is availble as an e-book.
This model is quite popular in the sciences and is found also in more traditional disciplines like philosophy. It will definitely save time for lecturers who need to put together a first year course on Buddhism. One of the reasons for this post is that I will probably be in this position in a couple of years, and would like to have a quick reference…
Anyway, Charles Prebish and Damien Keown are distinct scholars and their introduction ought to be good. What is important and innovative about it are the extra bits: maps, illustrations and an accompanied website that includes the model syllabus, examination questions, self-test questions, essay questions, and recordings of sounds and chants. Price: £16
The book is also availalbe as e-book from the Journal of Buddhis Ethics