Buddhism and Western Psychology

This paper provides a Western psychological interpretation of the fundamentals of Buddhist thought, and an integration of the concepts with some Western psychological constructs and disciplines. First discussed is the body of knowledge being considered, called "essential Buddhism," and the basic resources. It is argued that essential Buddhism is not religion or philosophy, but rather psychology.
Then the basics of essential Buddhism are covered, including dukkha, clinging, four noble truths, eight-fold path, concentration, and mindfulness. In the next section, essential Buddhism is related to cognitive science, behavior modification, psychoanalysis, and transpersonal psychology. Next is a brief history of Buddhism and its coming to the United States. Finally, in a discussion section, in addition to more global reflections on the previous contents, there is an introductory overview of psychological contributions of other branches and schools of Buddhism.