Buddha

Until the 20th century, the Buddha was probably the most influential thinker in human history
Covers the life of the Buddha and the genesis and significance of his teaching
Also discusses how and why Buddhism spread across continents and survived so well through the centuries
First published in the Past Masters series, where it has sold well over 30,000 copies

Michael
Carrithers guides us through the complex and sometimes conflicting
information that Buddhist texts give about the life and teaching of the
Buddha. He discusses the social and political background of India in
the Buddha`s time, and traces the development of his thought. He also
assesses the rapid and widespread assimilation of Buddhism and its
contemporary relevance.