Experimental Buddhisms: From Japan to the WorldA lecture by John Nelson, University of San Francisco

1. Juni 2015

This illustrated talk will explore how innovation and activism are creating “experimental Buddhisms” in both individuals and institutions in Japan, south and southeast Asia, and elsewhere in the world. While there are many progressive examples —such as the increased role of women in temples, anti-nuclear protests, suicide prevention, partnering with NPOs, and elder care — there are also shocking cases where Buddhist texts empower religious nationalism, racism, and even violence. The talk will demonstrate how the concept of “experimental Buddhism” can provide both intellectual analysis and spiritual insight for late modern religious practices.

John Nelson is Professor of East Asian religions in the Depart- ment of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Francisco. He received his Ph.D. in cultural anthropology from UC Berkeley, and has researched Japanese religions, religion and society, and globalization throughout his career. He also serves as Academic Director for the Master’s program in Asia-Pacific Studies, and was the founder of the Asian Studies undergraduate program at USF. His areas of specialization are East Asian religions, contemporary Buddhism, cultural anthro- pology, globalization, secularism, and Asian Studies. Professor Nelson is the author of two books on Japanese Shinto (including the best- selling A Year in the Life of a Shinto Shrine), numerous articles, and a video documentary on Yasukuni Shrine. His most recent book is Experimental Buddhism: Innovation and Activism in Contemporary Japan (University of Hawaii Press, 2013) which was the co-winner of the 2014 Numata book prize for “outstanding book in Buddhist studies." (PDF)

Date: Monday 01 June 2015, 18:15–19:45 h
Venue: Hamburg University, Hauptgebäude, Hörsaal ESA H, Edmund-Siemers-Allee 1
The lecture will be held in English. The Entrance is free.