Buddhism: Conflicting Visions

I am in the middle of writing my last chapter of my book, which is on Buddhism’s encounter with modernity. An old anecdote resurfaces in my mind. Over thirty years ago, when I returned to Hong Kong for a visit, I had an interesting conversation with an old classmate and close friend, Alfred. Alfred and I went to the same secondary school in Hong Kong. I told Alfred that I had become a Buddhist. Alfred said that he felt sorry for me.

Alfred’s remark did not surprise me. Among the young and educated, there seems to be a conflict of vision. While the educated young people in the West tend to have a favorable vision of Buddhism, their counterparts in Asia often have an opposite vision–they see Buddhism more as a remnant of the past and a symbol of backwardness and superstition.

In regard to Christianity, there is a similar conflict of vision between East and West. In East Asia, Christianity is often associated with modernity and a much welcome break from the past. In the West, however, Christianity is often seen as an embarrassing remnant of the past. The atrocities committed in the name of Christianity are well-known among the young and educated. The trend in the West is towards atheism and secularism. Adding to the embarrassment is the fact that many conservative Christian groups tend to defy modern science. This is particularly true for issues related to evolution, climate change and gender/sexuality studies.

The differing perceptions of Buddhism among well-educated Westerners and some well-educated Asians can be understood through a variety of historical, cultural, and social factors.

For many well-educated Westerners, Buddhism is appreciated for its philosophical depth, particularly its insights into mindfulness, meditation, and the nature of suffering and existence. These aspects resonate with contemporary Western thought, emphasizing personal experience and introspection. Additionally, in a context where traditional religious institutions may be in decline, Buddhism offers an avenue for spiritual exploration, providing practical tools for personal growth, mental well-being, and ethical living. The West’s long-standing curiosity about Eastern philosophies has also contributed to a romanticized view of Buddhism, often seen as a path to wisdom and enlightenment. Modern reinterpretations, such as…