Global Citizens

Abstract Global Citizens is a study of the Soka Gakkai Buddhist movement, which was founded in 1930 in Japan, spread rapidly after the Second World War, and has since developed a world-wide following. The book provides an historical overview of the development of the movement as an educational reform society, its development into a sect of Nichiren Buddhism. It provides important details of Soka Gakkai’s entry into Japanese politics, including up-to-date information on the relationship between the Komeito – the political party founded by the Soka Gakkai – and the Liberal Democratic Party-its historical opponent in Japanese politics and present partner in the ruling coalition. The book then documents the spread of Soka Gakkai Buddhism to North and South America, Europe, and other Asian countries.