The Living Thoughts series presents some of the greatest minds the world has ever known. Thinkers, philosophers and other intellectuals are all profiled along with their major works. Ananda K Coomaraswamy and I B Horner together in this volume wonderfully bring out the essence of Buddhism. People throughout the world have been influenced by the Buddha's teachings. This collection brings out in simple language some of the basic tenets of Buddhism. Introducing the readers to the different phases of the Buddha's life, the book shows the development of his thoughts and also interprets his teachings to a larger audience of the modern times. Translated from the Pali texts, this collection will be of immense help in understanding Buddhism as a religion and as a way of life.

Similarly, both Coomaraswamy and Horner also discuss the issues of heresiology, dhamma for the common folk, sacrifices, treatment of animals, and familial and societal responsibilities from Buddha's perspective.