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Alan Watt's "The Way of Zen", 2002.
This paper reviews the 1957 classic, "The Way of Zen", by Alan Watts, the godfather of Zen in America.
1,360 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 1 source, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Watts' introduction of the philosophical foundations of Zen, which lie in the world of Hinduism. The paper author believes that Watts wanted to interest the readers to the point where they would begin to practice Zen. The paper states this book is a classic because of its scholarly sweep, easy readability and the delicate balance it successfully creates between the ?emptiness? and ?no mind? of Zen and the need for the Westerner to be given a solid explanation of anything.
From the Paper
"Watts explores one of the most famous aspects of Zen, the Zen koan, the riddle that cannot be solved. As he explores koans used by the Rinzai School of Zen, he makes clear that a koan is meant to put doubt into the mind of the young student?doubt that he knows anything at all. From that position, where his ego is then broken down, real learning and wisdom can beginning. Watts tells the story of an encounter between Tao-hsin and the sage Fa-yung, who lived in a temple so holy that birds brought him offerings of flowers."
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What is Zen?, 2008.
An analysis of the concepts behind Zen with a view to trying to explain what it is.
2,294 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to offer an explanation of what Zen is. It explores the history of Zen and the effects that Zen has on people. It begins by describing the relationship between zen and Shakyamuni Buddha and its relationship to Buddhism. The paper also looks at what Zen helps people to achieve and the importance of this understanding of how to live and die without anxiety and fear.
From the Paper
"Thus we see that Zen can be defined in historical terms, and it can be defined in terms of practice. Yet it is clear that the most important approach to what Zen is, is to see that Zen achieves for human beings. As we have seen, Zen enlightenment appears to hold the key to the two most important problems of life: how shall we live, and how shall we die. Zen enlightenment offers us nirvana, a place in which we can live and die without suffering. This seems to be a key way to understand what Zen is - to see what it can make possible for us. Thus, though it is hard to precisely define Zen, just as it must once have been hard for people to define the Sun, we can come towards an understanding of what Zen is, by understanding what it can achieve. If it can help us to achieve an understanding of how to live and die without anxiety and fear, then clearly it is a very important, powerful and wonderful thing - even if we cannot precisely define what it is."
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Zen Buddhism, 2007.
This paper discuses Zen Buddhism as a form of Mahayana Buddhism, which is a tradition that has had much appeal to some westerners in the last generations.
3,015 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper relates the history of Zen Buddhism, explaining that it originated in China and later spread throughout much of Vietnam, Korea and Indo-China. The author points out that Zen Buddhism demands a great deal of the follower but its gift is a pure simplicity that brings the transformation of the person and all awareness. The paper relates that many North Americans, including Heidegger, Erich Fromm, and Aldous Huxley, value the 'in the moment' focus of Zen Buddhism as a solution to fast-paced societies that cause many people to feel overwhelmed by stress. The paper relates that the aesthetics of Zen appeal to Westerners as seen in sand or stone 'Japanese' gardens that reflect the influence of Zen Buddhism.
Table of Content:
Introduction
The Buddha's Emissaries
Zen's Appeal and its Spread
Zen's Appeal to Non-Asian Persons
Concluding Discussion
From the Paper
"Those leaving India for East Asia in the 6th century AD believed they carried a simple but very powerful message. The smile of the Buddha was a symbol that had spread through India by those known as the 28 Patriarchs, the symbol brought to China by Bodhidharma and later taken on to Japan. Part of the appeal of Zen Buddhism perhaps was its accessibility in societies where only the elite, indeed, only the philosophical or priestly classes, were literate. Zen's emphasis on personal consciousness, as aided by a learned teacher, appealed to people who were given simple - but extremely difficult meditative exercises to master."
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Zen (Chan) Buddhism & Daoism (Taoism), 2006.
A comparison between the philosophy of Zen (Chan) Buddhism and Daoism (Taoism).
2,596 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at Zen (Chan) Buddhism and Daoism (Taoism). The paper reviews these respective philosophies and draws attention to the differences and similarities between the two. The paper further explores how Zen Buddhism differs from Taoism in the focus and trajectory of its emphasis on radical non-dualism.
Outline:
Introduction
Discussion: emptiness in Taoism and Zen Buddhism
Zen Buddhism, non-dualism and Satori
From the Paper
"However, while there are more similarities than dissimilarities in the foundational views of Taoism and Zen, yet there is a difference in emphasis. On the one hand, as can be seen in the first Taoist painting, the human figure still exists in nature and the world of opposites. Another aspect of Taoism is the theory of continual change and non - stasis. The opposites of the Yin and Yang remain as an important part of the ethos of Taoism. These opposites are completely and more radically denied in Zen Buddhism."
"Nevertheless it is equally important to realize that both philosophies are based on the basic principle that true reality cannot be grasped or 'pinned down' by human conceptuality and rational thought. The second Zen painting makes this point sharply clear in that there is only the circle - a symbol itself of the denial of opposites - depicted against a an essentially blank background which represents the true nature of reality. Here there is no reference at all to nature or man and the origin of the Origin is suggested in its obvious and non-dual entirety. "
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Zen Buddhism, 2008.
An overview of the beliefs and philosophies of Zen Buddhism.
1,878 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at how Zen Buddhism is a hugely complex and sprawling philosophical/intellectual construct that cannot be easily expressed. The paper attempts to outline what Zen Buddhism is by looking at what sort of mind-set it teaches and what it demands of its followers. Furthermore, the paper relates how, at its core, Zen Buddhism demands that people let go of the attachments and curious affectations which contribute to unhappiness insofar as these things offer a distorted view of what constitutes a good life. Additionally, the paper considers how Zen Buddhism argues against blindly accepting traditional knowledge and how it takes what could even be called a relativistic or post-modern approach to studying language and the written word. Lastly, the paper looks at the chief "truths", of which there are four, that informs Zen Buddhist thought. In the final analysis, the paper suggests that Buddhism is fundamentally about valuing experience and feeling over formal cosmologies and epistemologies.
From the Paper
"For one thing, Zen Buddhism (Buddhism in general, really) teaches people to accept pain as the price one pays for growth. This pain is not a bad thing: on the contrary, pain deepens character and a deep character allows an individual to probe more deeply into the secrets of life. It is through pain that one embraces revelation - and Buddhism teaches people to accept discomfort as part of the learning process. In a closely-related vein, Zen Buddhism is a philosophy which encourages people to become less ego-centered. By effacing (in part) or by denying the ego, the individual takes the first step towards understanding the infinite, the metaphysical, and to developing a sincere religious consciousness (Suzuki, Essays in Zen Buddhism, 15-17). All of this, of course, is predicated upon personal self-inquiry and introspection."
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Zen Practitioners in the West, 2008.
An analysis of the challenges and opportunities that face Zen Buddhism as it is practiced in the West.
1,694 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at Zen practitioners and what challenges they face as they practice in the West. It particularly discusses the ignorance which seems to have sprung up over time with regards to the precise nature of Zen Buddhism and looks at how Zen practitioners must confront this ignorance by vigorously educating neophyte westerners interested in the religion and philosophy but who may be ill-informed about its origins and teachings. The paper also looks at the lingering specter of racism and the common misperception regarding Buddhist "retributive" or karmic suffering.
From the Paper
"Lastly, Buddhism is diminished in the popular imaginings of many westerners because of its apparent tolerance for human suffering - a situation which, given its association with India, can lead it to being confused with the ugly caste system historically supported by its rival (and philosophical cousin), Hinduism. Zen Buddhism thus can become easily seen as the manifestation of a religion that takes a neglectful view of the degradation visited upon unfortunate groups within a society. What is rather ironic about all of this is that the harsh, retributive notion of "karma" is actually quite alien to canonical Buddhism (Jones, 66) but the notion that Buddhism encourages this sort of human misery is a popular article of faith among its critics (Crabtree, no.6)."
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Zen and Haiku, 2006.
An analysis of the influence of Zen tradition on haiku.
2,149 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
Haiku is a form of meditation or reflection strongly influenced by Zen tradition that can be used by men to attain enlightenment and simple understanding.This paper examines how Zen traditions influenced early haiku by encouraging the pursuit of natural awareness and simplicity without intervention. It reviews the methods that early haiku poets used to reflect the idea that what occurs in life and within the mind should be presented rather than reflected on. These ideas and emphasis on Zen's influence on haiku in Japan and how connected the tradition of Haiku is with Zen philosophy are also discussed.
Outline:
Introduction
Analysis
Zen's Influence on Haiku
Conclusions
From the Paper
"Zen philosophy focuses on the importance of simple living, solitude and meditation and our impermanence or the lack of permanency in all that exists in the world. Adopting Zen morals one must assume that the simple path in life is the one filled with much reward and prosperity. Zen philosophy concentrates on achieving enlightenment, where one recognizes the Buddha nature and sees that this tendency exists in everyone (Lieberman, 2005). Enlightenment according to Zen tradition is possible by simply acknowledging that which is and recognizing that interpretation or analysis of events is not necessary."
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Zen and the Samurai, 2002.
Discusses the influence of Zen teachings on the Japanese Samurai.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 4 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the teachings of Zen and how the Zen philosophy influenced the Japanese samurai. A brief history of the Zen philosophy and the samurai is included.
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Zen Buddhism, 2007.
An analysis of "An Introduction to Zen Buddhism," by Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki.
1,174 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the author presents Zen Buddhism in a Western language - English - while acknowledging that languages, especially Western languages, are completely inadequate to defining Zen Buddhism. The paper describes how the word "Zen" may translate reasonably well as "enlightenment," yet it is not the kind of enlightenment Westerners usually think of. The paper shows how the author's style of writing is effective for his purpose. The paper concludes that the reader is left with the feeling that perhaps Westerners really can't comprehend Zen Buddhism, but attempting to understand this book would be a good exercise for students of Japanese and Chinese culture.
From the Paper
"The sources the author uses are quite remarkable. They include the "Flower Sermon" given by Buddha, when he held up a flower but said nothing, ancient writings from China and India, and numerous writings from around the world including Japan and Germany. He also quotes the critics of Zen Buddhist, giving considerable attention to harsh comments such as "Zen Buddhism is mind-murder," perhaps alluding to the idea that logic is of no use on this path to enlightenment and in fact gets in the way: people cannot get to a state of Nirvana through reason. The author's anger regarding some of the criticisms made about Zen Buddhism comes through at these points in the text."
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Director Alan Schneider, 2005.
This paper discusses the life and work of director Alan Schneider, American genius of the stage.
3,435 words (approx. 13.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Alan Schneider, who was an award winning director, innovator, teacher and mentor, was a major influence in academic commercial, local, regional and amateur theater. The author points out Schneider joined the Arena Stage in Washington D. C. during its formative years in the late 1940s, directed such works as "The Glass Menagerie" in 1951, which propelled the playwright Tennessee Williams into international prominence; the two men became close life-long friends. The paper states that the greatest insight into how Alan Schneider's style of directing can be found in the University of California, San Diego, collection of his papers entitled "Series 3, Production Materials"; the paper lists briefly some of its contents, which give an indication into his directing style for plays fro 1941 to 1979.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Biographical and Background Information
The Balancing of a Career
Correspondence Series of Insights
Alan Schneider Style of Directing and Teaching
From Directing to Teaching - An Easy Transition
Conclusions
From the Paper
"In 1963 Alan Schneider received the Antoinette Perry (Better known as the "Tony") Award for his excellence of direction of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" Likewise he's won the Village Voice Off-Broadway (OBIE) Award for his direction of "The Dumbwaiter" and "The Collection." Plus in Washington D. C., the Board of Trade Award "for outstanding contribution to professional Community Theater in the nation's capital and production director of Arena Stage." However Alan Schneider, always a restless and busy person, was never one to rest much, or even dwell long on his laurels. His delight came in helping others attain their goals and aspirations particularly the youth of not only the United States but throughout Europe and England."
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"Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance", 2002.
A review of this contemporary philosophical narrative, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" by Robert M. Pirsig.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 0 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper sets out to show how certain philosophic truths about Zen are revealed in the form of a novel, and how it attempts to explicate Zen Buddhism for an American audience through the use of a narrative and a subject matter that is understandable to an American audience. The plot is outlined and the author?s Zen philosophy is discussed.
From the Paper
"Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig is perhaps one of the most unusually named works of contemporary philosophical narrative. The book takes the form of a novel in which certain philosophic truths about Zen are revealed. The book attempts to explicate Zen Buddhism for an American audience through the use of a narrative and a subject matter that will be understandable to an American audience."
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Socrates and Zen, 2004.
Examines the Greek philosopher's views, compared to Zen.
1,776 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper examines whether the sage, Socrates, agrees or disagrees with the Way of the Zen masters. The paper was prompted by Dan Millman?s semi-autobiographical tale, "Way of the Peaceful Warrior: A Book That Changes Lives". The paper examines the Four Noble Truths of Zen philosophy and concludes that Socrates, indeed, agrees with the ways of the Zen teachers.
From the Paper
"Where I thought Millmen abandoned the more peaceful philosophies and adopted a more rigid code of a warrior was when he and Socrates discussed death. Having read the ?Code of Bushido?, the ancient Japanese philosophy of the Samaria, I feel Dan Millman is trying to piece together many philosophies through Socrates teachings. When the topic of death is broached for example, then a more austere philosophy of something that could be compared to Ninjitsu or the Samaria seemed to have come into play."
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"An Introduction to Zen Buddhism", 2002.
Reviews D.T. Suzuki's book which successfully presents the fundamental ideas and practises of Zen Buddhism.
1,400 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 1 source, $ 53.95
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Abstract
In "An Introduction to Zen Buddhism", one of his most popular and respected works, Suzuki explains concepts and terminology such as satori, zazen, and koans, as well as the various elements of this philosophy. But while Mr. Suzuki takes nothing for granted concerning the reader's understanding of the fundamentals, he does not give a merely rudimentary overview. All of his insights, particularly regarding the elements of the unconscious mind and the relation of Zen philosophy to traditional Western philosophy, go far beyond other philosophical and religious sources for their penetrating clarity and timeless wisdom. What is most important about D.T. Suzuki's work, however and what comes across so powerfully in this book, is his unparalleled ability to communicate the experiential aspect of Zen.
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Shunryu Suzuki's "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind", 2008.
A review of Shunryu Suzuki's 1997 book "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" plus a creative dialogue based on insights from this book.
2,060 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 0 sources, APA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
The author of this paper explains that, once he learned that the beginner's mind is so important for Zen, he began to be excited about Shunryu Suzuki's book, "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind". The author describes what he learned about the book by studying its jacket cover and the illustrations on the tittle page and then relates how he was surprised to find out that the first thing the book discusses is how to sit. The paper concludes by presenting a creative dialogue, based on the book, situated at the middle class home of a Zen Buddhist named Zooey and a Jehovah's Witness evangelist named David.
Table of Contents:
Book Review
Creative Dialogue Based on the Book
From the Paper
"I decided not to worry, but to keep reading with an open beginner's mind. Perhaps if I try every day, I will become flexible enough to get into the full lotus position. I was interested to learn that Zen seems to be a religion that is focused on the body. For example, breathing is also very important. Also, Suzuki (1997) recommends that we must own our own bodies (p. 27). I think I understand what this means. I think this means to really pay attention to our own bodies. This is quite easy to do when one is in pain from trying to get into the lotus position."
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Shunryu Suzuki's "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind", 2008.
Reviews "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" by Shunryu Suzuki and then applies these teaching to a creative dialogue.
2,255 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Shunryu Suzuki's book, "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" is divided into three parts: right practice; right attitude; and right understanding.. The author of the paper then relates that a lot of Zen Buddhism is non-intellectual and hard to grasp. Therefore, she set out clinging to these basic concepts like a drowning person clinging to a life jacket. The author also claims that the book is challenging and resulted in the biggest, most significant shift in her thinking. The paper concludes with a creative dialogue, based on the book, which is a debate about the different religions of an American, Republican, born-again Christian (Andy) and an American Zen Buddhist (Mike).
Table of Contents:
Book Review
Creative Dialogue
From the Paper
"This all sounds very attractive - and makes more sense to me than suchness, thusness, or emptiness! The condition of being a roshi sounds so attractive that I can understand why people would pursue it. It offers, it seems, the possibility of living happily in the reality of the present. I therefore set out to learn the mysteries of Zen, through the answers of the great teacher Suzuki.
"In the first part of the book, I learned that according to Suzuki (1997), posture and breathing are essential in order to practice Zen. Suzuki believes that these are vital for right practice."
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