a basic introduction to Buddhism by a colleague of Stephen Bachelor

The book takes the reader through the four Noble Truths, with a focus on meditation, in terms that would be familiar and non-threatening to a western secular reader. This means that the books as a very low 'UFO factor' -- it does not mention any supernatural or 'metaphysical' side of Buddhism, and makes only the most passing reference in the appendix to rebirth. Bodhi is also relegated to the appendix (under 'enlightenment'). The book ends with some advice on how to become a Buddhist, with a comparative rating of various traditions of Buddhism on criteria such as 'moral discipline', 'exotic' and 'weird experiences'.

Claxton, Guy (Prof). The heart of Buddhism: practical wisdom for an agitated world. 1990, Crucible, place of publication. {paper|hard}back. number of pages pages.