Perry Schmidt-Leuke applies his “fractal” theory of religions to a comparative study of Buddhism and Christianity. In short, he believes that it is a false stereotype to contrast discrete entities like “Buddhism” and Christianity” without acknowledging the wide variety which is essentially reproduced in different religious traditions. This approach to the varieties of Buddhism overcomes many of the stereotypical distinctions between Buddhism and Christianity, for instance that Buddhism embraces an impersonal absolute, whereas Christianity affirms the primacy of one’s relationship with a personal God.
Perry Schmidt-Leukel is Professor of Religious Studies and Intercultural Theology, University of Munster, and director of the Institute for Religious Studies and Interfaith Theology. Author of a dozen books in German and English, including his Gifford Lectures: Religious Pluralism and Interreligious Dialogue.