Actually, it is rather a normal definition of the West, as the culture formed in the Mediterranean basin and spread more widely by Hellenism, Rome, and Christianity. Islam was part of the West, although it became more isolated under the Ottomans. The spread of Christianity and incorporation into Europe made the Slavs part of the West. It is the civilization of "Jerusalem, Athens, and Rome",as it were. In any case, it is not arbitrary, even if there are competing versions extant....
On Buddhism, I have read many sutras, as well as the works of people like D.T. Suzuki. I would agree that Buddhism, at least in a philosophical, rather than popular, version has had some influence, but marked? I can't see it. I would always like to be enlightened on things I have missed, though, so if you care to elaborate......
I have never hidden the fact that I think that imperialism was often, though not always, positive, and that I regret the suddenness with which the colonial powers divested themselves of their colonies...... |
