Concerning a Commerical market and Diamond Way Buddhism

[Inquizator]

Greetings all,

I'm writing to this forum for a current research project I am undertaking, noting that this is undergraduate work and will not be published.

In cutting to the chase I am currently looking at the possibility of commercialization of Buddhism, specifically Diamond Way Buddhism (In particular http://www.diamondway-buddhism.org/). Expanding upon the idea of a commercial market I would also look at the concept of branding, that is in a sense the representation of itself to the market. In looking at this topic, I'm wondering if anyone would be able to share their thoughts on the following;

• Do you believe there is a commercial effect upon The Diamond Way Buddhism , would you consider this to have a negative or positive effect?
• If you do believe this to be true, what are your thoughts on branding, and how has your interaction with The Diamond Way been effected?

Any responses would be much appreciated, even if you are not directly affiliated with the specific group mentioned. Noting that this can be written in an informal manner, the key is a discussion around the topic.

 

[BulletproofMonk69]

• Do you believe there is a commercial effect upon The Diamond Way Buddhism , would you consider this to have a negative or positive effect? Yes and Negative
• If you do believe this to be true, what are your thoughts on branding, and how has your interaction with The Diamond Way been effected? I hate branding, I disagree with branding. DOWN WITH BRANDING. The effect has lead me to question my own faith which I find deeply disturbing.

 

[Windshuriken]

Hi there,

I personally haven't seen much about The Diamond Way specifically, but the few sub sects I have seen that have partially incorporated commercial aspects into it I felt went against some of the core concept that I hold as apart of Buddhism. From my experiences with these sub sects it has made me disinterested in pursuing others that are in the same vein.

 

[BulletproofMonk69]

Well said Windshuriken. These sub sects have the potential to have an extreme negative impact on the ancient traditions of Buddhism.

 

[Sarah94]

I have personally attended The Diamond Way, and find it to be a great place, though I can see the possiblity of commercialization, I find that the use of media is helpful in strengthening my connections with like minded people. The way things are presented in a branding sense do not seem to to dimish the experience in any way.
I disagree with BulletproofMonk69 and Windshuriken because I believe the commercialisation allows for more people to learn about the amazing lifestyle of Buddhism therefore bringing more people together.

 

[AlwaysaMonday]

Of course there is an influence, its just the way of the world, but that doesnt make it either negative or positive, its really dependant on how you look at it. Personally I find the movement, and their "image" a positive thing in the long run, for example, if they didnt have their 'image' out there i would have never of found the organisation and the community that i enjoy being part of when i went looking into my spiritual side.