Resurgence of Buddhism
United StatesThe resurgence of Buddhism can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Immigration: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was an influx of Asian immigrants to Western countries, many of whom were Buddhist. This brought Buddhism to the attention of Westerners and led to the establishment of Buddhist communities in the West.
- Scholarly Interest: Western scholars began to take an interest in Buddhism in the early 20th century, leading to the translation of Buddhist texts and the study of Buddhist philosophy and history. This increased understanding of Buddhism among Westerners.
- Counterculture: In the 1960s and 1970s, there was a counterculture movement in the West characterized by anti-establishment sentiment, a focus on spirituality and personal growth, and an interest in Eastern religions. Buddhism was seen as an alternative to traditional Western religions and attracted many young people.
- Social Media: With the advent of the internet and social media, Buddhism has become more accessible to people around the world. Online communities, websites, and apps have provided a platform for people to learn about Buddhism and connect with other practitioners.
Overall, the resurgence of Buddhism in the 20th century has led to the establishment of Buddhist communities and institutions in the West, and has made Buddhism a more visible and accepted religion in Western societies.