The Other Side of Nothing

Why Ethics Matter in a Nondualistic Universe

A real, relatable, and reader-friendly guide to Zen Buddhist ethics for modern times

In the West, Zen Buddhism has a reputation for paradoxes that defy logic. In particular, the Buddhist concept of nonduality — the realization that everything in the universe forms a single, integrated whole — is especially difficult for outsiders to grasp. In The Other Side of Nothing, Zen teacher Brad Warner untangles the mystery and explains nonduality in plain English. To Warner, this is not just a philosophical problem: nonduality forms the bedrock of Zen ethics, and once we comprehend it, many of the perplexing aspects of Zen suddenly make sense.

Drawing on decades of Zen practice, he traces the interlocking relationship between Zen metaphysics and ethics, showing how a true understanding of reality — and the ultimate unity of all things — instills in us a sense of responsibility for the welfare of all beings. When we realize that our feeling of separateness from others is illusory, we have no desire to harm any creature.

Warner tackles his subject with verve, wit, and a dash of loopy humor, always handling heavy themes with a light touch. In clear and simple language, he illustrates Zen principles by using personal stories, Western psychology, and traditional Buddhist parables (with an occasional nod to pop culture). He also introduces readers to fundamental Buddhist doctrines such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path and then discusses their relevance to present-day concerns. The result is an expansive overview of the Zen ethos that will give beginners and experts alike a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most enduring spiritual traditions.

A fascinating exploration of Buddhist ethics and how it is inextricably linked to the concept of nonduality
The author’s iconoclastic books, including Hardcore Zen, Sit Down and Shut Up, and Don’t Be a Jerk, have sold more than 150,000 copies
The author is the founder of the Angel City Zen Center in Los Angeles and teaches internationally each year

Review Quotes and Endorsements

Praise for Brad Warner’s most recent book,Letters to a Dead Friend about Zen

“Warner is unafraid of sharing his own beliefs and doubts and freely questions Buddhism itself. While loaded with pop culture references and dark humor, his explanations of Zen philosophy are steeped in tradition, well researched, and ultimately respectful of the practice. . . . Warner’s voice is much needed in American Buddhism.” — Library Journal

“Warner provides an intimate, candid reflection of his Zen practice and his career as a writer and speaker in this touching work. . . . Honest and forthright, Warner’s trademark irreverent voice is present throughout.”

— Publishers Weekly Praise for the books of Brad Warner “Brad Warner frames Buddhism with something that touches my soul on the very deepest level — humor!”

— Vicky Jenson, director of Shrek “Fresh, edgy, and insightful.”

— Stephen Batchelor, author of Buddhism Without Beliefs “There are plenty of ‘Buddhist/Spiritual’ authors on the market who will gladly sell you a pat on the back. Brad Warner is not one of those.”

— D. Randall Blythe, lead screamer, Lamb of God “While Warner’s approach to Dogen may be unorthodox, its freshness might be exactly what the doctor ordered for anyone wanting a way in to the old monk’s still fresh perspective.”

— Adam Frank, 13.7: Cosmos & Culture blog, NPR.org “Brad Warner cuts through the bullshit and writes with simple clarity, common sense, and humor about the most misunderstood of all spiritual paths.”

— John Horgan, author of Rational Mysticism