“I’m confused. Buddhism is considered one of the world’s five great religions, but some people say it’s not a religion at all, but a philosophy, way of life, or science of mind. Which is it?” We answer your questions on Buddhism and meditation.
Are You Spiritual But Not Religious?
Buddhism is about realization and experience, not institutions or divine authority. This makes it especially suited to those who consider themselves spiritual but not religious. Here are ten reasons why:
Why Forms are Fundamental to Buddhist Practice
Embrace the ritual forms of Buddhist practice, says Buddhadharma deputy editor Koun Franz — you can’t escape them anyway.
Leading neuroscientists and Buddhists agree: “Consciousness is everywhere”

New theories suggest Buddhist teachings on consciousness may be correct, and the implications for science could be huge.
“Joining the Sacred and the Secular” conference to take place in New York on Friday
The Contemplative Alliance and Shinnyo-en will host “Joining the Sacred and the Secular” this Friday.
Review: Stephen Batchelor’s “After Buddhism: Rethinking the Dharma for a Secular Age”
In his latest and most ambitious work, “After Buddhism,” Stephen Batchelor makes a sustained and serious attempt to argue for his vision of Buddhism.
School in Oregon combines Buddhist and secular curriculum
Saraha Children’s School, which combines Buddhist teachings with a more standard curriculum, has just opened in Eugene.
Review: There Is No God And He Is Always with You
Brad Warner says that the concept of God can be helpful to Buddhists. Catholic thinker Susan J. Stabile, formerly a Buddhist nun, thinks not. There is No God and He is Always With You By Brad Warner New World Library 2013; 360 pp., $15.95 (paper) I stopped believing in God long before I became a […]
The Road to Modern Buddhism

Annabella Pitkin review “Buddhism In the Modern World”, edited by David L. McMahan.
What’s “After Buddhism”? An interview with Stephen Batchelor
Stephen Batchelor speaks to Danny Fisher about atheism, his understanding of what and how the Buddha taught, why he appreciates his critics.