ABSTRACT

Buddhism, Imperialism and War (1979) is a lively, provocative and informative study of two of the most important Buddhist countries of South East Asia – Burma and Thailand. Buddhism gives, in theory, a high place to the maintenance of peace, both between individuals and between social groups. In practice however, Buddhist nations are no strangers to the battlefield. This book explores the complexity surrounding the issue, and reveals much for the first time that has been obscure and misunderstood.

chapter 1|21 pages

Early Buddhist Burma and Thailand

chapter 2|25 pages

Consequences of Contact with Europe

chapter 3|31 pages

The Clash of Empires: 1782–1900

chapter 4|26 pages

The Growth of Nationalism : 1900–1945

chapter 6|13 pages

Buddhists at War