Ian Buruma

The problem with westerners seeking oriental enlightenment

Those chasing after blissful satori never seem interested in the people who actually live in Asia. They want to float in higher spheres

Paul McCartney, George Harrison and John Lennon with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in August 1967. [Getty Images]
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  • The Light of Asia: A History of Western Fascination with the East

    Christopher Harding

    Allen Lane, pp. 452, £30

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