The Kings of Buddhism: Power, Religion, and Fury in Myanmar

The Kings of Buddhism explores the consequences of state regulation and protection of a country's majority religion, including a state-supported religious monopoly, corruption, regulation, and repression of Theravada Buddhists, repression and violence against religious minorities, perpetual conflict and violence, a corrupt religious economy, and a corruption of truth.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Kings of Buddhism delves into the ramifications of state regulation and the safeguarding of a country's predominant religion. Sterken contends that the presence or absence of religious liberty is the outcome of rational, interest-driven assessments made by both religious and governmental entities. Drawing upon insights from figures such as Adam Smith, John Locke, and Thomas Jefferson, Sterken asserts that centuries of state backing for Theravada Buddhism have tainted the religious landscape in Myanmar. At the expense of both religions and society, Myanmar's kings and military leaders have prioritized the protection and regulation of religion to ensure their own political survival. The consequences of this entanglement between state and religion are numerous and serve as a cautionary tale. Firstly, a state-sanctioned religious monopoly emerges, leading to the suppression of alternative religious perspectives. Secondly, corruption, regulation, and repression of Theravada Buddhists become prevalent, perpetuating a cycle of injustice. Thirdly, religious minorities face systematic oppression and violence, perpetuating a cycle of conflict and instability. Fourthly, a corrupt religious economy thrives, exacerbating social disparities and perpetuating poverty. Lastly, the truth itself becomes corrupted, as religious beliefs and practices are distorted to serve political agendas. The consequences of state control are profound and serve as a stark warning to those who seek to intertwine religion and the state.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538177938