Shin Buddhism in Modern Culture

Chapter 7 – Shin Buddhism in the American Context

Multiple Choice Questions

1. For the Japanese who immigrated to America, Buddhism served many functions. Which of the following is one of them? It:
- helped the Japanese become westernized
- freed the Japanese from their ethnocentrism
- helped preserve the culture and traditions of the immigrants and was a source of consolation to them
2. Through the writings of such persons as Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman, Buddhism was introduced to the United States during the mid-nineteenth century. At that time, to which of the following groups did it have the most appeal?
- Japanese immigrants
- the intellectual and literary circles
- American scientists
3. The social environment of the Japanese immigrants placed Buddhism in a defensive position because it:
- helped maintain an awareness of and respect for Japanese tradition among people who were not allowed to become American citizens
- had to compete with the Shinto religion in Hawaii
- was banned by the U.S. government
4. It is difficult for outsiders to enter the heart of the Buddhist tradition in America because:
- it is still primarily a Japanese religion
- one must understand Japanese in order to join the religion
- outsiders cannot understand the teachings
5. Of the various Buddhist sects that took root in Hawaii, which was the largest and the best organized?
- Nichiren sect
- Soto Zen sect
- Jodo Shinshu sect
6. The first Japanese immigrated to Hawaii in order to:
- seek higher education
- work on the sugar plantations
- propagate Buddhism
7. A key figure in the development of Buddhism in Hawaii was the Bishop Yemyo Imammura. He believed that:
- Buddhism should remain a Japanese religion in every aspect
- Organs and pews did not belong in Buddhist temples
- Buddhism should adapt itself to the new environment and be accessible to those outside Japanese culture
8. Which of the following statements best describes the on-giri relationship that served as the basic ethical foundation in the lives of Japanese Americans? It:
- is essentially conservative, based upon one’s obligation to others
- promotes assertiveness and self-reliance
- stresses the importance of the individual over the group
9. Which of the following has hindered the development of Buddhism in America?
- the adaptation of American models
- ethnocentrism and a heavy dependence on Japanese clergy
- a desire for growth and change

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Thought Questions

1. In the process of institutionalization how can the followers of a religion lose sight of its founder?

2. What message do you think Shinshu has for Western people?

3. In this chapter, the author writes: “It appears to me that Buddhists have adapted to western society and its lure of success at the expense of their Buddhism.” What does he mean by this? Do you agree? Disagree?

4. Although Buddhism in America is indebted to Japanese sources, it must somehow develop its own distinct form as part of western culture. Now that you understand the development of Buddhism in Japan, as well as its early role in America, what are some of the problems Buddhism is facing today as it encounters western (American) culture? What do you think can be done to aid in this transition?