Why an Italian Zoomer Converted to Buddhism

This is the Illegitimate Scholar Podcast and this week I interview Theravada Buddhism practitioner, Angelo. Originating from Italy, Angelo narrates his transition from Catholicism to embracing Theravada Buddhism, discussing its practices, impact on morality, and viewpoints on gender roles, compared to Nichiren Buddhism and Westernized versions of the faith. The conversation extends to Angelo's critical view on abortion, political, and social concerns through a Buddhist lens. I address Buddhism's nuanced relationship with modern ideologies, debating its non-alignment with fixed political beliefs and detailing its influence on topics like immigration in Italy. It contrasts the allure of Buddhism in the West, its empirical approach through karma, and the vibrant Buddhist community across Italy, enriched by diverse practices and historical ties, including those to Julius Evola. The dialogue concludes by underscoring the importance of exploration and learning in understanding Buddhism's role in contemporary society and personal growth.

00:00 Introduction 

00:35 Italian Roots

02:48 Why Buddhism?

08:19 Nichiren Buddhism 

20:44 Theravada Buddhism

24:40 Buddhism in the West 

34:03 Greek Influence on Buddhism

39:04 Greco-Bactrian  Hellenistic Art

53:20 Mahayana Buddhist Influence on Gnosticism

01:01:29 Pali Language

01:07:41 Forest Monks

01:11:23 Interrupt  Myself

01:11:47 City Monks

01:17:38 Moinkas in the greater community

01:21:53 Buddhism in Daily Life

01:23:02 Western VS Traditional Buddhist Practices

01:25:44 Abortion in Buddhism

01:29:05 Dharma as Politics

01:36:44 Italy and Immigration

01:48:02 Global Influence of Buddhism

01:57:25 Julius Evola

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