Diverse spiritual traditions -- What is distinct about Buddhism -- The Buddhist schools : divisions in Buddhism -- The four Noble Truths -- The role of karma -- Identifying the self -- The Hinayana view -- The mind-only view -- The middle way -- The method aspect of the path -- How to practice

The Dalai Lama presents a comprehensive overview of the most important teaching of Buddhism. Perhaps the main difference between Buddhism and other religions is its understanding of our core identity: the existence of the soul or self, which is central in different ways to Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is actually denied in Buddhism. Further, belief in a "self" is seen as the main source of our difficulties. Yet a true understanding of this teaching does not lead one to a sense that life has no meaning--far from it, a genuine understanding leads to authentic happiness for an individual and compassion for others. In 2003 and 2007, the Dalai Lama gave a series of talks in New York on the Buddhist view of selflessness. This book, the result of those talks, is offered to help broaden awareness of this essential doctrine and its usefulness in living a more meaningful and happy life.--From publisher description