The Philosophy of Aikido

Book excerpt: This book is an invaluable guide for practitioners - whether beginning or advanced - wishing to know more about the context in which Aikido was developed and Aikido's implications for the world today. Some of the ideas discussed are : the relation of Aikido to such Asian traditions as Shinto, Shingon Buddhism, Omotokyo esotericism, Taoist mysticism, and Tantra ; points of correspondence between Aikido and Western philosophical and religious systems - Greek philosophy, Christianity, Kabbalah, alchemy, and modern scientific theories ; links between Aikido and art ; ways that Aikido thought can be used to advance the causes of such urgent issues ans health and healing, conflict resolution and environmental responsibility. --from back cover.