The Middle Way: The Story of Buddhism

Rating:
Summary: For those curious about Buddhism
Review: Being largely ignorant of the religion, I always found Buddhism to be little more than an odd philosophy masked as psuedo-religion. I bought the CD so that I could get a quick rundown of the the religion for my Easter Religion class (Religion 102). What I ended up doing after listening the the CD a few times was absorbing more literature on buddhism, and I have now converted. The CD was compelling--and it is so without sounding or being a overzealous propaganda recruiting tool. Loved it.

Rating:
Summary: For those curious about Buddhism
Review: Being largely ignorant of the religion, I always found Buddhism to be little more than an odd philosophy masked as psuedo-religion. I bought the CD so that I could get a quick rundown of the the religion for my Easter Religion class (Religion 102). What I ended up doing after listening the the CD a few times was absorbing more literature on buddhism, and I have now converted. The CD was compelling--and it is so without sounding or being a overzealous propaganda recruiting tool. Loved it.

Rating:
Summary: If you are a new in this philosophy, it's great for you!
Review: I never knew what's Buddhism is about. Well, may be common knowing: re-incarnation, white clothes and Buddha was a king. My friend gave it to me. I listened it in my car for 3 month, from work to home, every day. Especially the second CD - Dharma, to me is a teaching. This set simply changed my life. I recommend it for anyone who is in any stage of life. Stop, realize and stop the drama of your life. Today I've read many other books, scripts and famous Buddhist works, but this will be always favorite.

Rating:
Summary: Good Overview, but Lacks Authority
Review: With three first-rate actors at its disposal, Naxos Audiobooks could have created a lively and compelling examination of Buddhist philosophy. Unfortunately, not enough time is spent quoting from the original source material, thus drawing from its rich, innately dramatic quality. Instead, we have what is basically an essay by Naxos producer Duncan Steen (under the pseudonym Jinananda) on the basics of Buddhist thought. This essay is divided into three parts, focusing on the Buddha's life, on his teachings and, finally, on the teachings and religious practices of his followers. Occasionally, a brief passage from Buddhist lore is dramatically read by the fine cast, and the recording comes brilliantly to life. More of this would have made a five star album that would repay frequent listenings. As it is, Steen's commentary, though lucid and thoughtful, comes off like a reading of an encyclopedia article, without an encyclopedia's documentary authority. Steen should have trusted his sources and his cast more.