Buddhism in the United States Thesis

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Meditation centers became popular during this time, and so did extensive study into eastern religions, such as Buddhism.

There is another aspect of Buddhism that has had a remarkable effect on American society in just about every area, and that is yoga. While all Buddhists do not practice yoga (or meditation, for that matter), a large part of them do. Yoga has spread from being a relatively unknown practice to one of the most popular types of no-stress exercise in the country today. Millions of people attend yoga classes each week across the country, and it is touted as an excellent source of exercise for mind and body.

Buddhists are often thought to be non-materially oriented and interested more in spiritual enlightenment, but that is another area where the religion has altered in America. Author McCormick continues, "Instead, one's external, material circumstances are viewed as an effect of one's inner, spiritual condition. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that when asked about the goals and benefits of chanting, conspicuous benefits, such as acquiring a new home, a car, success in one's career, or good health, are mentioned frequently" (McCormick, 2002). Thus, Buddhists have helped impact American society, but American society has helped impact the beliefs and teachings of Buddhism, as well. That may be a reason that there is still so much interest in Buddhism, because the religion has been able to alter and modernize with the times to make it more relevant in modern, twenty-first century America.

There are other areas where Buddhist beliefs and teachings have had to alter to conform to American society. When Buddhism began to gain popularity in the country, many Buddhist monks immigrated to the U.S. To teach at Buddhist centers and temples, and some immigrated as a result of the Vietnam War and other reasons.

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When they reached this country, many of their teachings and rituals were no longer relevant. Author Seager notes of just one problem, "While cotton robes were suited to south Asia, he argued that their continued use during Midwestern winters put monks at serious risk" (Seager, 1999, p. 140). Eventually, the strict rules about dress and deportment were altered for American monks, and they have continued to change as society changes and grows.

The "Elite Buddhists" are American Buddhists who have converted or chosen the religion, rather than practice it as a result of their Asian culture or heritage. This group of believers includes celebrities, high-profile politicians and industry leaders, and is predominately white, which is one reason people believe they will be highly influential to Buddhism and society in the future. Another writer notes, "Just as Buddhists are far more highly educated than the average Westerner, they are far more liberal and far more likely to support environmental, antiwar, and human rights causes" (Coleman, 2001, p. 20). They are also far more likely to share their religious beliefs with others, bringing in more members to their Buddhist congregations, and they have the power and prestige to influence society in many ways.

In conclusion, Buddhism in America has come a long way from its origins in the mid-nineteenth century. It has grown in popularity, it has affected American literature, culture, and politics, and it has changed many people's lives forever. Buddhism continues to gain new members in the country, and millions of people practice some parts of Buddhism when they meditate, take a yoga class, or study the wisdom of Zen or other Buddhist teachings......

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