December 1, 2017
This small book, dedicated to the complex subject of human behavior, is based on a recent conversation German journalist Alt had with Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Alt's relationship with the Dalai Lama has spanned more than 35 years and 15 television interviews. The Dalai Lama has been focused on contemplating ethics as an important concept to consider in improving world peace, and his belief that "ethics are innate" goes beyond belonging to a particular religion. Secular ethics, as described here, do not center on superficial or material values; instead, they include inner values such as mindfulness, compassion, training the mind, and a pursuit of happiness. The authors explain how patience, forbearance, humility, and generosity are essential components of secular ethics. This revolution in thinking has the potential to increase empathy and compassion, as life is interdependent and our actions have global impacts. VERDICT This concise book takes on monumental themes, such as questioning the value of materialistic and shortsighted thinking in human behavior, and is recommended for anyone interested in exploring secular ethics.--Gary Medina, El Camino Coll., Torrance, CA
Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
November 15, 2017
According to his coauthor, Alt, the Dalai Lama, in various surveys, has been voted the nicest person in the world. And no wonder if this bookan extended interview with the man known to the world as His Holinessis any evidence. To one question from Alt, for example, he answers, I am mainly preoccupied by the desire to contribute to the good of humanity. Interestingly enough, this is less in the context of religion, as one would expect, than of secular ethics. The Dalai Lama has come to believe, as is stressed repeatedly throughout this small book, ethics are more important than religion. We are not members of a particular religion at birth. But ethics are innate. As are, he goes on to affirm, love, benevolence, and affection. In realizing these ideals, he stresses the need for mindfulness and for more listening, contemplation, and meditation (he meditates four hours per day). Always inspiring and accessible, this lovely book is, itself, readers will discover, worth meditation and contemplation.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)