The Big Bang, The Buddha, and the Baby Boom

Wes Nisker has here presented a rather light-hearted account of his own spiritual journey into Buddhism. He takes us through the Beat, Hippie, and New Age movements to the present, more mature, spiritual association with Eastern philosophy and Buddhism in particular. While not a deep book, it does give some insight into the history of the Buddhist movement in the United States and why Buddhism is as popular as it is now. To a large degree this popularity is due to the common sense approach of Buddhism to every day life and the unspectacular claims it makes. It also does not require exact literal belief and is thus quite open to science. In essence we are told that there is nothing to be gained because we have the ability for enlightenment within each of us. We need only connect to that awareness within. Despite this apparent simplicity, the practice of Buddhist meditation is far from easy. It requires commitment that takes time to develop, yet is open to everyone.

I do not agree with Nisker on every detail (it would be unusual if I did). For example, I'm not sure that I would quite give the blank check he gives to the evolutionary psychologists. This is, however, a minor quibble. I don't expect him to be one with all of the scientific arguments of the day.

All in all this book is a very enjoyable read and I very much recommend it to be read if you are on an airplane as I was when I read it.