Buddhism, which originated in India, is now present worldwide. In the West, it often appears full of contradictions. The highly personal longings and desires of seekers encounter religious communities with their own unique dynamics. While many see Buddhism as a wellness religion that is largely free of dogma and compatible with a modern lifestyle, others have completely immersed themselves in an esoteric belief system involving prostration practices and guru devotionalism in a subculture of their own that promotes abuse. Although Western culture's engagement with Buddhism is no longer in its infancy, the depths of this Asian religion are still far from being fully explored in all their facets.
In Morning Light over the Occident, Hans-Günter Wagner shows that an unreflective reception of Buddhism does not do justice to this multi-layered teaching and way of life. In addition to an in-depth critique of guruism, he also highlights connections and intersections with Western philosophy and modern science. An enlightened Buddhism, honed by secular thinking, has more to offer than romantic notions of enlightenment, charismatic gurus, and colorful imagery.
Hans-Günter Wagner lived in China for 15 years, where he worked in international institutions. He has written a standard work on Chinese Buddhism (Buddhism in China – From the Beginnings to the Present) and a comprehensive book on Daoism (Daoism – China's Indigenous Religion and Philosophy). In addition, he has translated and published Buddhist sutras, prose, and poetry from Chinese into German.
