[Buddha-l] Unpopular Buddhism

[JKirkpatrick]

Most interesting and revealing.....thanks for the observations.

Joanna K.
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Dear All,

Perhaps the difference between Putnam's and Wuthnow/Cadge's
studies is to do with the ways in which different religions were
perceived in terms of ethnicity by their respondents?  For
instance, Putnam has written recently about how 'racial'
differences have a negative effect on social capital and maybe
his respondents regard both Buddhism and Islam as 'racially
different', 'Asian' and 'less American'?  The development of the
Triratna Buddhist Community's centre in East London, UK was
initially opposed by members of far-Right groups and this
opposition ceased when the Buddhists were found to be white and
middle-class.  On the other hand, Buddhism in the West is
increasingly seen as 'tolerant' and associated with being white,
'peaceful' and respectable (e.g. celebrity Buddhists such as
Richard Gere).
Just some initial thoughts on the differences between the two
studies.

Best, Vijayatara