The Zen Buddhist Philosophy of D. T. Suzuki: Strengths, Foibles, Intrigues, and Precision

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D.T. Suzuki (1870-1966) reached global fame for his writings on Zen Buddhism. In this introduction to his theories of self, knowledge, and the world, Suzuki is presented as a Buddhist philosopher in his own right. Beginning with a biography of his life providing the historical context to his thought and discussing Suzukis influences, chapters cover the Zen notion of the non-self and Suzuki's Zen view of consciousness, language, and religious truths. His ideas about philosophy and radical views on rationality and faith come to life in two new complete translations of The Place of Peace in our Heart (1894) and Religion and Science (1949), which helps us to understand why Suzukis description of Zen attracted the attention of many leading intellectuals and helped it become a household name in the English-speaking world. Offering the first complete overview of Suzukis approach, reputation, and legacy as a philosopher, this is for anyone interested in the philosophical relevance and development of Mahayana Buddhism today.

Reviews

This refreshing book slices through the stale standoff between uncritical admirers and polemical detractors of this hugely influential international interpreter of Zen, a book that takes D. T. Suzuki seriously as a philosopheralbeit one who was deeply ambivalent about the limits of, and yet need for, philosophy. * Bret W. Davis, Professor & Higgins Chair in Philosophy, Loyola University Maryland, USA *
Rossa Muireartaigh provides a thought-provoking account and evaluation of the merits and controversies surrounding the legacy of the crucial modern Zen Buddhist thinker, D. T. Suzuki. This book, which features a couple of new translations of Suzuki's essays, is highly recommended to researchers and students of Japanese religion and society. * Steven Heine, Professor of Religious Studies and History Director of Asian Studies, Florida International University, USA *

Author Bio

Rossa Muireartaigh is currently Associate Professor at the School of Foreign Studies, Aichi Prefectural University, Japan.