Buddhism and Its Christian Critics

Paul Carus’ Buddhism and Its Christian Critics (1894) is a defense of Buddhism against Western misconceptions, particularly those from Christian scholars. Carus compares Buddhist and Christian teachings, highlighting Buddhism’s rational, ethical, and non-dogmatic nature. He argues that Buddhism aligns with scientific thought and moral progress, challenging claims that it is pessimistic or inferior to Christianity. Carus presents Buddha as a profound ethical teacher and Buddhism as a universal philosophy rather than mere religion. By addressing common critiques, he promotes interfaith understanding and advocates for Buddhism’s relevance in the modern world, bridging Eastern and Western spiritual and philosophical traditions.