Why Westerners like Buddhism
To me, Buddhism is a wonderful PHILOSOPHY misunderstood by some to be a religion. As I understand it, Buddhism is not about worshiping a God or living by a set of rules of conduct - though a thorough appreciation of Buddism would lead one to wisdom, self-reflection, a sense of one-ness and interconnectedness with others (and the whole universe) which leads to more empathy and compassion, and less caving in to the selfish desires and wants of the ego. All of which seems inherently good, leading to a higher personal code of ethics and morals. This can go hand in hand with a religion like Christianity. On the other hand, Buddhism lacks a God of authority - an all-powerful, judgmental God. Are some people flocking to Buddhism specifically because it does not involve judgment by a higher authority than oneself?
As Jay McDaniel writes in
"A growing number of people in Europe, Canada, Australia, and the United States are turning to Buddhism for guidance at two levels: personal transformation and social engagement.
They are interested in Buddhist meditation and Buddhist hospice care, in Buddhist psychology and Buddhist approaches to community development. They want to live lightly on the earth and gently with others, and they think Buddhism can help.
They were not born Buddhists, and they do not necessarily convert to Buddhism in a formal way. They may be affiliated with another wisdom tradition: Judaism, Christianity or Islam, for example. They may find great meaning in their tradition, grateful that it gives them some things that they do not find in Buddhism: a sense of community, an opportunity for praying with others, trust in God's love... people are reading books and listening to podcasts about Buddhism; and some are also meditating, participating in Buddhist retreats, and studying under Buddhist teachers...." Read full article for more details.