Spiritual Journeys, Everyday lives. Paths of Western Practitioners of Buddhism in the Consumer Society

This thesis explores everyday lives of Western Buddhists in consumer society via qualitative (auto)ethnographic methods. The fundamental questions regard ways in which Buddhist values and practices interact with consumerism and materialism, what are the challenges Buddhists face in daily lives and how do they synthesise or balance the different views and values of Buddhism and Western society. Buddhists often have difficulty accepting some cultural aspects of Buddhist teachings. They do not feel stigmatized by society, but can nevertheless feel out of place among non-Buddhists due to differences in values. They can face social isolation if they do not have regular contacts with other adherents and Buddhist teachers. On the other hand, Buddhists report more contentment in ordinary life than before conversion and increased empathy, leading to better relationships. These positive changes are attributed to regular meditation practice, that takes up a considerable amount of their free time. Buddhists often change lifestyles and careers to be more in line with Buddhist values. Western Buddhist overall regard practicing Buddhism in consumer society as challenging, but consider the challenge worthwhile