About the book
Patrick Grant explores the relationship between Buddhism and violent ethnic conflict in modern Sri Lanka using the concept of \"regressive inversion.\" Regressive inversion occurs when universal teaching, such as that of the Buddha, is redeployed to supercharge passions associated with the kinds of group loyalty that the universal teaching itself intends to transcend. The book begins with an account of the main teachings of Theravada Buddhism and looks at how these inform, or fail to inform, modern interpreters. Grant considers the writings of three key figures—Anagarika Dharmapala, Walpola Rahula, and J. R. Jayewardene—who addressed Buddhism and politics in the years leading up to Sri Lanka's political independence from Britain, and subsequently, in postcolonial Sri Lanka. This book makes the Sri Lankan conflict accessible to readers interested in the modern global phenomenon of ethnic violence involving religion and also illuminates similar conflicts around the world.
Editions of Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780791493533
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780791493540
- PDF
- ISBN 9780791493670
Read an Excerpt
Patrick Grant explores the relationship between Buddhism and violent ethnic conflict in modern Sri Lanka using the concept of \"regressive inversion.\" Regressive inversion occurs when universal teaching, such as that of the Buddha, is redeployed to supercharge passions associated with the kinds of group loyalty that the universal teaching itself intends to transcend. The book begins with an account of the main teachings of Theravada Buddhism and looks at how these inform, or fail to inform, modern interpreters. Grant considers the writings of three key figures—Anagarika Dharmapala, Walpola Rahula, and J. R. Jayewardene—who addressed Buddhism and politics in the years leading up to Sri Lanka's political independence from Britain, and subsequently, in postcolonial Sri Lanka. This book makes the Sri Lankan conflict accessible to readers interested in the modern global phenomenon of ethnic violence involving religion and also illuminates similar conflicts around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka about?
Patrick Grant explores the relationship between Buddhism and violent ethnic conflict in modern Sri Lanka using the concept of \"regressive inversion.\" Regressive inversion occurs when universal teaching, such as that of the Buddha, is redeployed to supercharge passions associated with the kinds of group loyalty that the universal teaching itself intends to transcend. The book begins with an account of the main teachings of Theravada Buddhism and looks at how these inform, or fail to inform, modern interpreters. Grant considers the writings of three key figures—Anagarika Dharmapala, Walpola Rahula, and J. R. Jayewardene—who addressed Buddhism and politics in the years leading up to Sri Lanka's political independence from Britain, and subsequently, in postcolonial Sri Lanka. This book makes the Sri Lankan conflict accessible to readers interested in the modern global phenomenon of ethnic violence involving religion and also illuminates similar conflicts around the world.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Buddhism
Where can I read a sample of Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791493533
How long is Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka and how many pages does it have?
Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka has 160 page(s)
Is Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Religious Studies
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka?
Patrick Grant
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791493533) and paperback(ISBN 9780791493540) and pdf(ISBN 9780791493670)
Where can I buy Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka from below
Where can I buy Buddhism and Ethnic Conflict in Sri Lanka?