Back
14th Dalai Lama: Beyond Religion (Hardcover, 2011, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) 4 stars

Review of 'Beyond Religion' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

The Dalai Lama's secular approach to ethics is one that he hopes can harmonize Buddhism and all other religions into our increasingly secular world. He wants people to believe in science and work together. If #14 is going to be the final Dalai Lama, it's a commendable goal.

Many different topics are discussed with a rational approach, aiming to help the collective by strengthening individuals. Education, mindfulness, global responsibility, compassion, and justice are some topics covered in the Dalai Lama's humble yet enlightened prose. One thing I had great respect for was how he not only acknowledges the waning popularity of religion, but also valid anti-religious sentiments. This was addressed by distinguishing criticisms directed at religion itself and those directed at the institutions of religion, which is at least progress. Beyond Religion shares a lot of overlap with [b:The Moral Landscape: How Science Can Determine Human Values|7785194|The Moral Landscape How Science Can Determine Human Values|Sam Harris|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1331317058l/7785194.SY75.jpg|10722133], and a sit-down with the two authors would be amazing to see.