PHIL 375 Japanese Philosophy

This course traces the development of lines of philosophical thought in Japan from the Heian Period (794-1185) to the 21st century. Primary focus is given to metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical philosophies found in Japanese forms of Buddhism (e.g., Shingon, Pure Land, Zen), Japanese developments of Confucianism, and Japan's native tradition of Shinto. Students will also gain familiarity with the confluence of these traditions in the samurai (Bushido), and later incorporations of Western philosophy by the Kyoto School. Other philosophical topics may also be explored, such as Japanese aesthetics, phenomenology, and feminist thought.