A Penn State Abington Professor Has Written An Introductory Book On Buddhism

ABINGTON, PA — A religious studies professor at Penn State Abington has written an introductory book about Buddhism designed for beginners and those curious about the eastern tradition.

C. Pierce Salguero, an associate professor of Asian history and religious studies at the Abington campus, says that his new book, Buddhish: A Guide to the 20 Most Important Buddhist Ideas for the Curious and the Skeptical, is designed for readers seeking to learn about a different spiritual tradition or those looking to understand the roots of their mindfulness practice.

"It's for people who are not necessarily lining up to go to mindfulness classes but feel there might be some value and who want to see what the tradition entails," Salguero said in a statement. "Others might want some background information."

The author said the book offers a broad overview of Buddhism and looks at the eastern spiritual practice in a more objective and balanced way.

As for the term that he coined, "Buddhish," Salguero says it goes in line with his on-again, off-again relationship with the faith throughout the years.

"I've been Buddhist-adjacent as a fan and critic and scholar of this tradition my whole adult life," he said in his statement.

Salguero said he spent around 18 months writing the book, which also highlights time he spent at a Thai monastery and also touches on his years living in Asia.

"In some respects, this is the product of 25 years of investigations and reading about Buddhism," he stated.

Visit here to learn more about the author.