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Ancient Wisdom, Modern World: Ethics for the New Millennium [Paperback]

His Holiness The Dalai Lama
4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)

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Book Description

4 Jan 2001

At a time and in a culture where science and technology have taken over from religious belief, when ethics are understood primarily in terms of aesthetic choice or legality, how are we to formulate moral principles to guide us in our daily lives?

Though religion can certainly help in this, the Dalai Lama demonstrates that there are universal principles we can draw on which transcend the dilemma of belief or unbelief. And whilst many have been content to speak of spiritual matters as something mysterious or evanescent, the Dalai Lama explains his approach in terms that are as clear and concise as they are compelling.

With wit, gentle good sense and with penetrating insight, the Dalai Lama shows how the truths that have stood the test of generations of practise can provide us with the tools to live happy, fulfilled and meaningful lives. In the process, it becomes apparent that he does not merely espouse the 'feelgood' religiosity some accuse him of. The reader is left admiring not just the wisdom of the author, but the wisdom of the culture he represents.



Product details

  • Paperback: 256 pages
  • Publisher: Abacus (4 Jan 2001)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0349114439
  • ISBN-13: 978-0349114439
  • Product Dimensions: 19.2 x 12.6 x 1.8 cm
  • Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
  • Amazon Bestsellers Rank: 400,000 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Amazon Review

Is it possible to have a workable ethical system without the underpinning of religion? This is a question the Dalai Lama addresses in this very readable book. The two aims we all have in common, whatever our religion, are the pursuit of happiness and the avoidance of suffering. Throughout the book the Dalai Lama emphasises that we are not moral islands; we have a responsibility for others. The more we seek to increase the happiness and decrease the suffering of others, the more, ultimately, we will also benefit ourselves. This applies in all areas of life. "Thus when we commit ourselves to truth--and thereby to honesty--we help reduce the level of misunderstanding, doubt and fear throughout society. In a small but significant way, we create the conditions for a happy world."

As might be expected, the Dalai Lama draws illustrations from his own life as the spiritual leader and as a refugee from Tibet, and from the stories of other Tibetan Buddhist monks. But he is at pains to point out that this is not a Buddhist book and that he has no desire to convert anyone else to his faith. His answer to the dichotomy of the unique demands of individual religions in a world of religious pluralism is that for each of us, there is one religion which suits our upbringing or temperament best--or even none at all. The teachings of this book are universal. It's a shame that for this book, by one of the world's foremost spiritual leaders, the publishers clearly didn't bother to proof-read the text, which is quite badly marred by grammatical and punctuation errors. Let's hope they tidy up for the paperback. --David V. Barrett --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

Invaluable ... A blueprint for an ethical way of life (DAILY TELEGRAPH )

This is a book for our time (IRELAND ON SUNDAY )

All the qualities he proposes are achievable and are things we could practice daily by showing just a little thought ... A clearly written and straightforward book which, I think, achieves its purpose of approaching ethics based on universal rather than religious principles (SPECTATOR )

A clearly written and straightforward book... If we could only follow the Dalai Lama's advice to the world for a new millenium and cultivate a commitment to the principle of universal responsibility and experiment with unconditional love, not only would we (SPECTATOR )

Inside This Book (Learn More)
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Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8 out of 5 stars
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
77 of 79 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Breathtaking eloquence, infinite wisdom 17 Jan 2001
Format:Paperback
In this book the Dalai Lama has given an answer to all of us who have questioned our motivation in life or ever said, "yep, it's a messed up world but what can you do?" Going out of his way to avoid promoting Buddhism or even looking through Buddhist perspective, he confronts even the most sensitive of issues (genetic science, GM food ect.) with compassion, wisdom and an understanding of what it is to be human, where-ever your from, that is without compare outside Shakespeare. I am not one to rave about a book in this manner without reason, but this is one of those books that upon reading it you feel the need to buy it for everyone you know, in the hope that they too may put their copy down feeling happier, wiser, humble yet full of optimism for the future. I urge you to read this book so strongly I cannot find words to express it.
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37 of 39 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Practical wisdom for a spiritual revolution! 6 April 2002
By A Customer
Format:Paperback
Although I found this a bit slow to get going, with the opening couple of chapters surely rather obvious to most of us in the Western world these days, this is an excellent book. The Dalai Lama carefully puts forward universal principles that can inspire all humanity in the direction of fundamental personal happiness.

Some Buddhist terms are used (e.g. "nying-je" = the supreme emotion of love and compassion, "chi-sem" = universal consciousness), but the author is far more interested in embracing ALL religious and non-religious perspectives. "Whether or not a person is a religious believer does not matter much. Far more important is that they be a good human being". His approach is practical too. There are countless everyday examples of possible moral and ethical choices, with clear observations and comments on the consequences. An awareness of the fundamental interconnectedness of ourselves and those around us is a major theme.

Through the application of moral principles to a very broad range of human experiences, the Dalai Lama inspires a practical, intelligent, spiritual awareness and sense of responsibility in the reader. The approach is balanced, rational and compassionate. Great words to be absorbed and acted upon.

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22 of 23 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Book for Everyone, Religious or Not! 13 April 2003
Format:Paperback
This book was an excellent read!!! I had expected a book steeped in religious belief but it is highly readable for everyone from all walks of life and religious backgrounds (or not). The Dalai Lama teaches lessons in just being the type of person we all like to be around, you know the type, they make you feel loved and safe, they are trustworthy and gentle. The poem on the last page sums it up beautifully (you'll have to buy it to read it).
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14 of 15 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars It really IS so good 8 Nov 2003
Format:Paperback
Although it seems redundant to add another voice to this chorus of praise I cannot resist doing it: this book really IS so good. It does not promote sensational new ideas for universal ethics, it just shows with unprecedented clarity that the basic principles we need are quite simple and make common sense, and it IS possible to overcome negative habits and learn virtues. The author as a person is strongly present in the text and makes it credible. He lives what he preaches, and he sounds like his smile: vital, joyful and with a heartwarming sense of humour, never moralistic, never boring. You don't have to be holy to enjoy this book, and you don't have to be a Buddhist. I agree with the other reviewers: Read it!!!!
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12 of 13 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars AMAZING BOOK 25 Jan 2005
Format:Paperback
I am not religious at all but I do believe in being in harmony with the world and each other. This book makes so much sence and is very inspiring. I would recommend it to everyone it makes you think and maybe if we can all take just something away from reading this book then the world will be a better place.
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars One for all 3 Feb 2011
Format:Paperback
I have always found it hard to believe in 'A God'. Reading this book talked to me of things we all need in this life, and yet are hard to find reference to without having to climb inside a Bible. Reading this Man's words, I have the feeling I am listening to an old friend, and understanding what's there, although some deep thinking is required, is not hard...I gained from this experience greatly.
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10 of 11 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
It takes a great deal of wisdom to write a book about the problems of modern life and culture. It usually ends in most readers shrugging the author off as being too idealistic, or not seeing the importance or detail of cultural status. You may feel the same about this book, but I doubt it. The Dalai Lama writes with a sincerity and warmth that you think you only ever hear about, and he leaves you thinking that maybe there is 'something' in what he is saying. I'm not going to tell you to read this book, but I am going to urge you to. You might have heard it all before, but I doubt you've heard it with such truth and honesty.
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9 of 10 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
The Dalai Lama clearly puts forward some solutions to the problems we face in the modern society of the "developed world". This book is aimed at people from any walk of life and I am sure that anyone who reads it will take something special from it. He tackles complex issues such as nuclear stockpiling and genetic foods with understanding and clarity. He demonstrates that by changing our viewpoint we can live both happier and more rewarding lives. Each and every point made is backed up by solid logic which shows his reasoning and enables understanding on behalf of the reader. Definately one to recommend to others.
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars Perfection
I love this book. It's one I keep going back to and reading again. It's beautifully written and the content is wonderful. Highly recommend.
Published 1 month ago by Spiritual lady
4.0 out of 5 stars Neuroscience could prove it right
Though religion is declared to be valuable but not necessary, the whole approach is entirely molded in the metaphysics of the religion that is behind the Dalai Lama, Tibetan... Read more
Published 1 month ago by Jacques COULARDEAU
5.0 out of 5 stars Dalai Lama books great
A Dalai Lama book is great. If you have not bought one. This would be wortth considering as your first.
Published 2 months ago by bmr96
3.0 out of 5 stars Don't really know what to make of this book
An enjoyable enough book, I was edging towards a 4 because it is written with the best of intentions but something was missing that i can't quite put my finger on
Published 3 months ago by Taekwon
5.0 out of 5 stars A really intresting reaede
This book is great if you only get on book by the dalai lama this one is thought provoking and wonderful,
Published 6 months ago by agne11
5.0 out of 5 stars FAB BOOK!
This is an amazing book! The Dalai Lama speaks with such honesty that actually makes you feel good. There were times while reading that I didn't totally agree with him but by the... Read more
Published 7 months ago by FC
5.0 out of 5 stars Thought provoking
The title of this book is very accurate - the ethics of Buddhism are timeless but the world moves on. The Dalai Lama writes as a very worldy and wise religious leader. Read more
Published 9 months ago by MarkS
5.0 out of 5 stars Life enrichment
A warm basic book of mental guidance and enlightenment refreshingly
free of religious cant and dogma.
Published on 4 May 2010 by adelsman
5.0 out of 5 stars Finding inner peace and happiness
An excellent and practical book on seeking inner peace and happiness without religion.Perfect for helping with a desperate need of the materialistic 21st century,
which is not... Read more
Published on 9 Feb 2010 by Mr. Richard M. Keen
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read
Excellent read for anyone looking to explore the ethics and values of the past and their adaption, application and relevance for the present day.
Published on 10 Oct 2009 by Satpal
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