Books by Brian Daizen Victoria

Presenting a history of the contradictory, often militaristic, role of Zen Buddhism, this book documents the unknown support of a supposedly peaceful religion for Japanese militarism throughout World War II. It draws on the writings and speeches of leading Zen masters and scholars.

This book explores the profound influence of Zen Buddhist-linked terrorism in modern Japan. Brian Victoria follows a band of Zen Buddhist-trained adherents who ardently believed in their mission to carry out political assassinations in the 1930s, facilitating Japan's transformation into a totalitarian state and setting the stage for Pearl Harbor.