American Dharma

American Dharma examines the landscape of Buddhism in America through extensive research and interviews across multiple communities and traditions. The book focuses particularly on how Buddhist practice intersects with contemporary issues of race, gender, power, and privilege. Gleig investigates specific controversies and transformations within major American Buddhist institutions and communities from the early 2000s through the 2010s. She documents the perspectives of teachers, practitioners, activists, and reformers who are working to address problems and create change. The work draws from firsthand observations and over 100 interviews to analyze how American Buddhism is evolving in response to cultural shifts and internal challenges. Through case studies of different sanghas and meditation centers, Gleig traces patterns of adaptation, conflict, and renewal. The book reveals tensions between traditional Buddhist teachings and modern Western values while exploring how practitioners navigate questions of authenticity and adaptation. This investigation speaks to broader themes about the transformation of religious traditions in new cultural contexts and the relationship between spiritual practice and social justice.

Readers find the book provides a thorough examination of Buddhism in America, with particular focus on racism, power dynamics, and ethical issues in Western Buddhist communities. Appreciation points: - Clear documentation of Buddhist modernism and racism in American sanghas - Balanced coverage of sexual misconduct scandals - Strong academic research and extensive interviews - Accessible writing despite academic subject matter Critical feedback: - Some readers note the academic tone can be dense - A few mention it focuses more on problematic aspects than positive developments - Limited coverage of certain Buddhist traditions and regions Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (13 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (8 reviews) Notable reader comments: "Best account of the evolution of Western Buddhism and its ongoing challenges" - Goodreads reviewer "Important but sometimes difficult read about necessary changes in American Buddhist institutions" - Amazon reviewer

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🔮 Ann Gleig spent over a decade conducting ethnographic research in American Buddhist and meditation communities before writing this book. 📚 The book examines how modern Buddhist communities are grappling with issues like sexual misconduct, racial diversity, and the integration of digital technology. 🧘‍♀️ "American Dharma" explores the emergence of "Buddhist Modernism," which emphasizes meditation and mindfulness while often downplaying traditional religious elements. 🌟 The author focuses specifically on "convert Buddhism" - the form of Buddhism practiced by Americans who weren't born into Buddhist families but chose to adopt the practice. 🔍 The book reveals how American Buddhist communities are being transformed by millennial practitioners who bring social justice perspectives and digital activism to their practice.