The Kings of Buddhism

Robert Edward Sterken

The Kings of Buddhism
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Rowman & Littlefield
Country
United States
Published
15 May 2023
Pages
272
ISBN
9781538177938

The Kings of Buddhism

Robert Edward Sterken

The Kings of Buddhism explores the consequences of state regulation and protection of a country's majority religion. Sterken argues that religious liberty or the lack thereof results from rational interest-based calculations of both religious and state actors. Using insights dating back to Adam Smith, John Locke, and Thomas Jefferson, Sterken argues that centuries of state support for Theravada Buddhism has corrupted the Myanmar religious marketplace. At the expense of religions and the society, Myanmar's kings and military rulers have protected and regulated religion to enhance their own political survival. The consequences state and religion entanglement include 1) a state supported religious monopoly, 2) corruption, regulation, and repression of Theravada Buddhists, 3) repression and violence against religious minorities, 4) perpetual conflict and violence, 5) a corrupt religious economy, and 6) a corruption of truth. The consequences of state control are stark and should serve as a warning to all who would seek to entangle religion and the state.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 2 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.