Pragmatic Buddhism: The New Buddhism Movement

Pragmatic Buddhism is one aspect of the New Buddhism movement growing in the West. New Buddhism is meant to make the teachings of Siddhartha Guatama, the historical Buddha, relevant to western living and thought. Western practitioners have long practiced the teachings of the Buddha as imported from India, Japan, China, Vietnam and other countries with strong Buddhist influences. All of them presented Buddhist teachings and philosophies within the structures, and with the methods that were indigenous to their countries of origin. There was little regard for the difference in cultures between them and the West. Monks and lay people were expected to adjust their lives to the teachings.

One such New Buddhism sangha (Buddhist community or social network) was established in St. Louis, Missouri in, 2006. It began as the Order of American Chan Buddhists, but recently changed its name to one more descriptive of its goal of making Buddhist teachings more accessible to people in the West, The Order of Pragmatic Buddhists.

Pragmatic Buddhist monastic director, Jim Eubanks (Shi Yong Xiang) presents a uniquely American blend of pragmatist philosophy, Chinese Chan, and Zen Buddhism. The goal of the Center for Pragmatic Buddhism is to direct the teachings of Siddhartha toward the culture and modern problems encountered in the West. Siddhartha Guatama strived to make his revelations relevant to his own time, and Pragmatic Buddhism wants to do the same for the West by recognizing historical and cultural contingencies and applying creative redescription as coined by Richard Rorty. By clinging to one worldview with only one correct interpretation, we limit our reactions to inevitable change. Our perspective must remain flexible to be able to face future issues.

New Buddhism has distinctively Western approaches. It limits the often overwhelming influence of lineages. It is an engaged Buddhism where lay people are encouraged to practice their interdependence with the world around them. New Buddhism monastics continue to live in their communities. David Shaner, PhD, Furman University says, "Your life is your monastery". Monks generally have families and pursue secular careers outside the Order. Whether it is the Order of Pragmatic Buddhists or another, they mix Buddhist traditions (Zen, Chan, Tibetan, etc.) to create their own unique modality.

Shi Yong Xiang says, "Remember that the historical Buddha himself rejected most of the central traditions of his day."

Buddhist teachings can be of great value in helping to solve personal dilemmas and the issues we face within our whole environment. New Buddhism teachings are presented in words and concepts more easily integrated into our Western lifestyle and give us the tools necessary to confront our modern problems both personal and social.

References:
The Pragmatic Buddhist Newsletter Vol. I, No. I, 2007
Western Transformation of an Ancient Tradition, James W. Coleman
www.pragmaticbuddhism.org