Product Description
This is the first in-depth study of the Soka Gakkai Buddhists in the United States. Drawing on unprecedented access to the organization through surveys and interviews, it provides a definitive and revealing picture of one of the fastest-growing religions in the world. The authors shed light on contemporary American society and show how many members of this sect are drawn from a growing "transmodern" subculture in America. In addition, the book traces the development of the organization in the US, examining how it adapted to the peculiar circumstances of America's cultural life showing how it has now become a very American phenomenon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Oustanding Research into a New American Religious Movement
Since the 1960s, most of the Asian religions practiced in the United States have enjoyed a brief period of popularity followed by decline. The Soka Gakkai International's constituent organization in the U.S., SGI-USAis an exception. Having gained widespread acceptance in American society,the Buddhist organization has achieved a stable presence by contributing tosociety through various activities related to peace, culture and education.

What makes SGI-USA different? How did the Japanese Soka Gakkai take rootand achieve such success in the United States? In "Soka Gakkai inAmerica: Accommodation and Conversion," Phillip Hammond, professor ofreligious studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and DavidMachacek, who also teaches at the university, offer answers to these andother questions.

Drawing on "A Time to Chant" by Bryan Wilsonand Karel Dobbelaere, published in 1994, a study of Soka Gakkai members inGreat Britain, Hammond and Machacek base their findings primarily onsurveys, interviews and informal conversations with members.

The authorsconclude that SGI-USA has thrived because it respects American culture,because it emphasizes personal growth and responsibility and involvement insociety at large, and because it recognizes the compatibility of scientificrationalism and religious value. The authors predict that SGI-USA willendure as a significant force in the American religious landscape and thatits members will serve as pioneers in this era of dramatic change as weapproach the new millennium. ... Read more

Product Description
This work is an intriguing study of the Soka Gakkai Buddhist movement--which was founded in 1930 in Japan, spread rapidly after WWII, and has since developed a worldwide following. It provides an overview of the historical importance of the movement as an educational reform society, its development into a sect of Nichiren Buddhism, its success among people living in urban industrial environments, and Soka Gakkai's response to the surrounding social and cultural environment. For example, it provides important details of Soka Gakkai's entry into Japanese politics, including up-to-date information on the relationship between the Komeito (the political party founded by the Soka Gakkai) and the Liberal Democratic Party (its historical opponent in Japanese politics and present partner in the ruling coalition). The book then documents the spread of Soka Gakkai Buddhism to North and South America, Europe, and other Asian countries. ... Read more

Product Description
Theorizing that Quebec's "Quiet Revolution" of the 1960s and the decline of Catholicism there had a profound effect on the spiritual life of the Quebecois, Daniel examines the thousand-plus conversions to Soka Gakkai (a Japanese strand of Buddhism) which have occured in the 1990s. The central enquiry in the text is why an Asian Buddhist group would attract a "respectable and devoted" following in once-Catholic Quebec while other Buddhist movements have always failed in the province - and the rest of Canada. The author also presents a history of Soka Gakkai movement in both Japan and Canada, as well as testimonies from a number of Quebecois Soka Gakkai leaders and members. ... Read more

Product Description
Since the 1960's several Japanese New Religions have made concerted efforts to expand their operations overseas. They have focused their work in East and Southeast Asia, but there have been successful ventures into North and South America, Europe, and Australia. The most successful of these religions is the Tokyo-based Soka Gakkai, which has chapters in about 150 countries and nearly 2 million foreign members. In "The International Expansion of a Modern Buddhist Movement", Daniel A. Metraux examines the expansion of this religious movement, and what makes it so appealing to many young professionals in rapidly modernizing societies. ... Read more

Product Description
The Soka Gakkai Revolution has revived Buddhism in the lives of millions of Japanese, changed the course of Japanese government, brought creative new ideas to the field of education, and impacted the worlds of culture and art. Metraux has written a comprehensive work on this integral actor in Japanese society and politics that analyzes the Soka Gakkai's rise to political power, its participation in the Hosokawa coalition cabinet, its highly publicized split from Nichiren Shoshu, and its plans to transform Japanese society. Also included is a secondary study of the Soka Gakkai movement in the United States. Contents: The Soka Gakkai Revolution: Blueprint for a New Society; The Soka Gakkai: History and Doctrines; The Soka Gakkai and Politics; The Dispute between the Soka Gakkai and the Nichiren Shoshu Priesthood; The Soka Gakkai's Revolutionary Approach to Education; The Soka Gakkai Abroad; Ikeda Daisaku: Religious Savior or Diabolical Dictator? The Significance of the Soka Gakkai. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (4)

Courage
Sharing his thoughts, along with quotes that inspired him.
Daisaku Ikeda's four book series is filled with warm encouragement and timeless wisdomQuotes supporting each title (Prayer, Courage, Determination, and Love), will inspire and touch your heart.

This small book is packed with encouragement
This small book has some great quotes to help us overcome life's obstacles, another great book by Daisaku Ikeda.

Much needed courage
"Courage" by Daisaku Ikeda is an indispensable book that provides much needed insight for each person to deal with a scary world both on the personal level and on the societal level.It explains about each person's acting to change the negativity that surrounds us, instead of just wishing for it to change, simply complaining about it or cowering from the harsh realities of life. It is written very straight-forward without being preachy. Ikeda offers simple steps to develop our own courage to face whatever troubles us in our lives.

Beautiful and moving
This is a great gift for yourself or someone else.It is an inspiritional quote book based on the Nichiren Buddhist teachings.It brings back to focus what is really important in life.It is suitable for Buddhist and Non Buddhist.It is life affirming quotes based on the dignity of human life.Daisaku Ikeada is a compassinate humanatarian whose works should be shared with the world.

... Read more

Product Description
From a Japanese word meaning "to create value," this book presents a fresh spiritual perspective to question the ultimate purpose of education. Mixing American pragmatism with Buddhist philosophy, the goal of Soka education is the lifelong happiness of the learner. Rather than offering practical classroom techniques, this book speaks to the emotional heart of both the teacher and student. With input from philosophers and activists from several cultures, it advances the conviction that the true purpose of education is to create a peaceful world and to develop the individual character of each student in order to achieve that goal. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Value education. A book on Education's restoration of Value.
Soka means Value. This book teaches the great importance of human interaction and relationship between the mentors and mentees of today's academic institution. Soka Gakkai President Ikeda strongly encourages the reader to understand that the value of Education as for others to learn and benefit from that which they learn. He expounds the one truth of Students to respect their teachers for their inputs just as teachers respect their students for their efforts. Mr. Ikeda distinctly explains the necessary steps and practice to keeping Value in education, as he is inspired by his mentor Josei Today, and the first president of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai, Mr. Makiguchi who was a humanistic educator and a strong advocate for peace. Purchase this book today and find great value in teaching others in all aspects of life, not just in schools but in all institutions of society. Go Soka!

Illuminating Insights for School Reform
Daisaku Ikeda is a prolific author who presents a Buddhist perspective on a vast array of topics.His message is that people have boundless creative potential for bringing about positive change.His works are always uplifting.Soka Education is no exception.It offers clear guidelines for educational reform.The focus is not on pedagogical strategies, but on fundamental issues such as the purpose of education, the qualities of great educators, causes and solutions of teen violence, and the need to foster global citizens.Where teachers, administrators, politicians, and parents apply the wisdom of this book, schools will become more humane places and young people will blossom.

The Japanese term "Soka" means creative, contributive living;Soka Education is education that empowers students, enabling them to lead happy, fulfilled lives.Ikeda objects to using schools to serve nationalistic or corporate ends.Japan did so throughout the past century, and is now suffering the consequences.To counter that trend, Ikeda has founded "Soka schools" in Japan (kindergarten through university) and elsewhere that are characterized by joyful, enthusiastic students; wise, affectionate teachers; and a prevailing belief that every student has a unique and important role to play in the world.I have visited many of those campuses; no experience has ever given me greater cause for optimism about the future.

The current thrust in the USA is to gear instruction toward raising standardized test scores.This is a step away from placing students' interests and needs first.In Soka Education, Ikeda calls for "a society that serves the essential needs of education."In contrast to this notion, American society, with politicians leading the fray, heaps blame and abuse on teachers.What's worse, the schools most in need of support-inner-city schools, for example-come under the harshest attacks.To counter the dark, conservative mood that holds sway in the USA and other countries, hopeful, practical prescriptions are needed.Soka Education provides these in abundance.

To take one example, Ikeda discusses the problem of juvenile delinquency.While the phenomenon results from an erosion of human bonds characteristic of our age, he says, educators can connect, life to life, with troubled youngsters and lead them on a path toward creative, rather than destructive, living:

"If these bonds are severed, the human spirit can only roam aimlessly in the pitch darkness of solitude. . . .It is the responsibility of adults to patiently restore the ability to communicate by listening to the voices of isolated children calling out for help from the darkness.There is a famous episode involving Socrates in which his influence on youth is described as being like an electric ray that stings those who touch it.He explains that he can electrify others because he is electrified himself.Similarly, teachers must constantly be creative if they are to evoke creativity in their students.This is an essential quality for educators.Most important is the teacher's attitude.Human interaction is the key" (pp. 74-75).

A sample of chapter titles: Reviving Education, Serving the Essential Needs of Education, Education Toward Global Citizenship, An Outspoken Advocate of Educational Reform, Humanity in Education, The Fight to Live a Creative Life. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (4)

A little book packed with meaning
Each page of this book has a short quote on love - love of nature to love of spouse, love for your children to love for the world.I bought two more copies, one for my son (a new father) and one for my best friend (a new grandmother).It's a beautiful book to keep or give as a gift.

Love
Sharing his thoughts, along with quotes that inspired him.
Daisaku Ikeda's four book series is filled with warm encouragement and timeless wisdomQuotes supporting each title (Prayer, Courage, Determination, and Love), will inspire and touch your heart.

Practical Insightful Guidance
Daisaku Ikeda is a very wise man.In this book and all the books in this series President Ikeda's deep compassion for all human life brillantly shines.His thoughtful words inspire hope and courage, helping people to move forward releasing the chains of despair and powerlessness.

This small book is packed with encouragement
This small book has some great quotes to help us overcome life's obstacles, another great book by Daisaku Ikeda ... Read more

Product Description
In 1983, a tiny group of people in Cardiff and a married couple in Aberporth West Wales were the only Welsh members of Soka Gakkai International, a Japanese movement based on the beliefs and teachings of the 13th century Buddhist, Nichiren Daishonin. Today, there are hundreds of members in Wales and the Borders. This book examines the history of the movement in these two areas, and draws on original research gleaned from the members themselves. The research elicits facets of their faith, practices, and study, as well as their testimonies to the success of such beliefs and practices in their daily lives. The book combines the twin goals of academic analysis of the Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin in general with the warmth of its expression in the lives of its adherents in Wales and the Borders. ... Read more

Product Description
More than 500 articles cover the broad range of popular religious culture of the United States at the close of the twentieth century. Beliefs, practices, symbols, traditions, movements, organizations, and leaders from the many traditions in the pluralistic American community are represented. Also includes cults and phenomena that drew followers, such as Heaven's Gale and UFOs. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Encyclopedia of Religion, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 1533 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.The second edition of this highly regarded encyclopedia, preserving the best of the first edition's cross-cultural approach, while emphasizing religion's role within everyday life and as a unique experience from culture to culture, this new edition is the definitive work in the field for the 21st century. An international team of scholars and contributors have reviewed, revised and added to every word of the classic work, making it relevant to the questions and interests of all researchers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Interesting Analysis and Information about Buddhism in US
My best friend is a Buddhist who chants with the Soka Gakkai (SGI-USA) and she gave me this book to learn, from an unbiased scholar's viewpoint, what the Soka Gakkai in America is all about.I am very glad I read it, andhave since read many other wonderful books by Daisaku Ikeda as well as aBritish book called "The Buddha in Daily Life," which is myfavorite book on the Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Buddhism.(I think that bookis only available at amazon.co.uk for the moment.)In any case, Irecommend this book "Soka Gakkai in America" by Jane Hurst as aninteresting analysis of history and information about the Soka Gakkaireligious movement in the United States.The author's insights into the"ethos" of this relatively new religious movement are wellconsidered, very interesting and well presented.

SGI Disappoints in America
This book looks at the past and present of Soka Gakkai, its interpretation of BuddhismCits current philosophies and its growth in America. In looking at what attracts Americans to this lay-buddhist organization, the authordescribes how faith in Soka Gakkaifs particular brand of proselytizingBuddhism leads to supposed self-development, happiness, peace andprosperity. Nothing is written of how SGI-USA has helped to garner popularsupport for American atrocities across the globe by purposely failing toenlighten SGI-USA members of those atrocities.

In dealing with therelationship between capitalism and Nichiren Buddhism, the author goesfurther awry. Nothing is mentioned of Soka Gakkaifs lucrative businessrelationship with Japanfs largest arms manufacturer while proselytizingSoka Gakkaifs peaceful agenda.

Nothing in this book informs the readerof the dark side of Soka Gakkai: the initiation of infants into theirreligion, Soka Gakkai's business relationships with Japan's largest armsmanufacturer and Soka Gakkai president Ikeda's tacit consent of the humanrights abuses of the world leaders he so often meets.

If one is lookingfor an obective and discerning view of Soka Gakkai, its philosophies andpractices, one won't find it in this book.

Interesting.
Being a SGI member I approched Mrs Hurst book with some resevation. A lot of ink has been spilled about our organzation and beliefs,however the vast majority of the writers had little to say.I am happy to report that this book actully looks beyond selective reporting and moves into thinking about the framwork of the belifs and cluture of our organzation, both past and present.The best part of the book is the interpatation of the interelationship between capitalism and Nichiren Buddhism. A well thought out book. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (14)

I love this book and read it every morning!
This book is great.It has a gem of wisdom for every day of the year. Each quote is so thoughtfully written and chosen and I have been so inspired by it.I read it every morning.

I highly recommend this book to anyone, Buddhist or not!

A very useful and inspiring read
The essential teachings of Buddhism are as relevant today as ever, perhaps more so and this book gives us many of the Buddha's insights. One of the most important is the practice of mindfulness, the practice of breaking free from the chains of habitual conditioning and delusion. I also recommend 'The Path of Mindfulness Meditation', available through Amazon.

BELIEVE
THIS BOOK GIVES YOU INSIGHT FOR DAILY LIFE THROUGH NICHIREN BUDDISM.A MUST READ

Great read!
Provides guidance for how to live your daily life and be happy with what you have. Not that focused on fundamental religion. Highly recommend.

Wise words
Although I am a practitioner of Zen, I have enjoyed this book a great deal (I was given it as a present). President Ikeda of theSGI (the lay branch of Nichiren Buddhism) is a renouned author and world figure. His writings of daily guidance occassionally are more specific for Nichiren Buddhism, but mostly reflect universal Buddhist philosophy and thought. Any Buddhist, or non-Buddhist for that manner, can find wisdom to live by in this book. ... Read more

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The “Encyclopedia of Buddhism” provides a comprehensive overview of one of Asia's most important religious and social forces, describing the Buddhist worldview, basic teachings and practices, history, and the different schools and sects. This intriguing set illuminates a religion that is a mystery to most Westerners by exploring Buddhist scriptures, art, architecture, saints, demons, monastic orders, festivals, rites and ceremonies, as well as the different forms Buddhism has taken in different parts of the world, and how it has blended with other religions like Shinto, Confucianism, Daoism and Christianity.

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Customer Reviews (5)

Wonderfull
Lovely!! it is all I needed: simple, easy to read, perfect for the "one page per day". Its presentation makes it ideal for a gift. I not only has Ikeda's thoughts, it also has reflections about "Determination" taken from famous people. I encourage you to get the whole "Buddhism For You series".

great reading
this writing by Diasaku Ikeda, are short excerpts on the subject at hand.
Well written for all people, most especially Nichiren Buddhist, SGI
I enjoyed this book very much.

Determination
Sharing his thoughts, along with quotes that inspired him.
Daisaku Ikeda's four book series is filled with warm encouragement and timeless wisdomQuotes supporting each title (Prayer, Courage, Determination, and Love), will inspire and touch your heart.

This small book is packed with encouragement
This small book has some great quotes to help us overcome life's obstacles, another great book by Daisaku Ikeda.

Always Encouraging!
These books are great for anyone who practices (or doesn't practice) this Buddhism. Soka Gakkai President Daisaku Ikeda always uses his incredible wisdom of the human spirit.These books represent his ability to always get a handle on any obstacle a person may be experiencing in their lives.I have practiced Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism for nearly 19 years and my faith and determination have grown every day.By chanting NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO, any human being can bring a solution to the problems they face. ... Read more

Product Description
The second volume in a five-volume work in the form of a slightly fictionalized biography describing the development of Soka Gakkai, the worldwide religion based on Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

SGI History
This series of books is an outstanding history of the reorganization of Soka Gakkai International after World War II in Japan.It provides a great insight into the rebuilding of Japan, and the struggle many endured to rebuild the SGI and their lives.Recommend to all SGI members.

A Great Surprise
As a practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism and a relatively new member of the Soka Gakkai International, this book was a great surprise to me. I knew that the book was a history of how the Soka Gakkai was reinvigorated by Josei Toda after WWII. But I had no idea that the struggle was so great. I am learning every day more about Buddhism by reading how the characters in the books use their faith to overcome their own struggles (karma) and become enlightened people. Maybe the expert on snake oil does not practice Buddhism so the story does not make much sense. I look forward to reading "The New Human Revolution."

Historical Novelization of Popular Buddhist Lay Organization
As a novel in which the protagonist, Josei Toda, discovers a deeper meaning to Buddhism while imprisoned by a militarist government during WWII may not connect with every reader.I read this novel approx. 30 years ago as I was learning about Buddhist practice and philosophy. It provided an excellent medium through which I learned the application of Buddhism in a practical setting, rather than simply as abstract concepts.I have continued my Buddhist practice and this novel was a key to keeping focused on the primary goal of enlightenment, a.k.a Human Revolution. Why another reviewer dismisses this as "snake oil" is odd. This Buddhism is a simple practice which requires no belief to undertake.An interested party, as I was, may begin without spending a penny, as I did. It is certainly not focused on trying people to spend large sums on ever continuing seminars and such.This school of Buddhism does alarm some people, as the novel illustrates, because other "mass movements" of the time were facist and not humanist. Furthermore, any new movement is seen as a threat to established institiutions. The Soka Gakkai, which this novel explores, is now recognized by a plethora of peace organizations as a beneficent organization.

My Basic Thoughts on The New Human Revolution
The concept of human revolution is based on the Buddhism of NichirenDaishonin, that enables people to elevate their life conditions to thehighest through their buddhist practice, thus revolutionize them fromwithin.

But, the true greatness of the Daishonin's Buddhism lies inmaking the practice possible and available to anybody, and through givingeach member of the world the opportunity to continuously change him/herselffor the better, the world peace can be achieved.The idea itself isrevolutionary, I believe, that it goes totally the opposite of what hasbeen done historically to achieve peace, which is to make the change at thetop to force the changes downward to people (in many cases with lots ofsacrificing and suffering).

The SGI, whose president is the author of TheHuman Revolution and The New Human Revolution series, practices theDaishonin's Buddhism; therefore, its ideal is to make each individual happyand to promote peace throughout the world.The New Human Revolution can beread in many ways, but I would recommend to pay a little more attention,when you read it, to the fact that the Buddhist ideal is put into practiceand actually happening.

As a SGI member, I am proud to be a part of thisendeavor and recommend anybody to check it out.

From East To West: The Story of SGI In America
This book (series) chronicles the history of the Nichiren Buddhist laity, Soka Gakkai,from 1960 to the present. It's a collection of the personal struggles and victories of the pioneers of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism inAmerica. No matter how many times I read it, it never fails to inspire mewith hope and courage. The SGI motto "No matter what, never giveup!" echos from every page.

As a foreigner living in a foreign land,I can understand from my own life how the Japanese war brides whointroduced Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism to the USA felt. President Ikedagave them four tasks to perform and they were:

1.) learn to speak English2.) learn to drive a car 3.) buy a car 4.) become US citizens.

Impossibledreams for these women. By taking US citizenship they'd lose their Japanesecitizenship and could never go home. English was very difficult to learn.Buying a car for a newly wed military couple, often with young children,was also seemingly out of reach.

Though their deep faith they made theyimpossible possible. Please do read the entire series. It will become oneof your favorites as it has become mine. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (4)

Prayer
Great . it will do the job to get you moving in the right direction.

Prayer
Sharing his thoughts, along with quotes that inspired him.
Daisaku Ikeda's four book series is filled with warm encouragement and timeless wisdomQuotes supporting each title (Prayer, Courage, Determination, and Love), will inspire and touch your heart.

This small book is packed with encouragement
This small book has some great quotes to help us overcome life's obstacles. another great book by Daisaku Ikeda.

Very Inspirational
I have been practicing true Buddhism for 19 years.Every book that Daisaku Ikeda writes is there to inspire others. ... Read more

Product Description
Excepts of the works of the Soka Gakki International President indexed by topic in an easy to use format. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great _ Inspiring _ Thoughts for ALL
As a humanist and as a Buddhist this book has been helpful in getting me back on track just by reading 2 lines of guidance from Mr. Ikeda.

Perfect for giving and getting encouragement, easy look up on topics of interest to you
I love using this book when I need some encouragement and wise words from Daisaku Ikeda on specific topics/situations. I also like to use it when I need to give others encouragement or want to punctuate a meeting plan with Dr. Ikeda's quotes. Highly recommended for Buddhist practitioners and non Buddhists alike. The wisdom of Daisaku Ikeda transcends religious, cultural, and socioeconomic boundaries. ... Read more