Damien Keown

Damien Keown is a prominent scholar in the field of Buddhist ethics and has authored several works on the subject. He is known for his contributions to the understanding of ethical issues in Buddhism and has been involved in academic teaching and research.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Buddhism

    A Very Short Introduction

    This insightful exploration delves into the rich tapestry of Buddhist philosophy, history, and practice, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of its core tenets and diverse traditions. The book navigates through the origins of Buddhism, its spread across Asia, and its adaptation in the modern world, while elucidating key concepts such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the nature of enlightenment. It also examines the role of meditation, ethics, and community in the Buddhist way of life, providing a nuanced perspective on how this ancient tradition continues to inspire and guide millions around the globe.

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  2. 2. Buddhist Ethics

    A concise, scholarly introduction to Buddhist moral thought that outlines its conceptual foundations—such as intention (cetana), non-harm (ahiṃsā), the five precepts, karma, and compassion—and shows how these inform ethical reasoning across different Buddhist traditions. Combining historical exposition with analytic argumentation, it examines debates over rule-based versus consequence-oriented interpretations and applies Buddhist principles to contemporary issues like war, medical ethics, sexuality, and environmental responsibility.

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