Date and time:
November 11, 2016 (Fri.), 4:00-5:30PM

Venue:
Main Conference Room (3rd Floor), The Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia, University of Tokyo

Speaker:
Professor Thomas Kasulis (Department of Comparative Studies, Ohio State University)

Language:
English

Abstract:
In this talk I will trace some of the sources of the idea of kokoro from China and ancient Japan, showing how the term accrued a rich array of meanings and nuances. Then I will discuss the idea itself as I understand its role in a general theory of creativity shared by most Japanese spiritual and philosophical traditions. I will conclude with a few reflections on how in this age of dehumanizing technology, we can find ways to nourish the notion of kokoro and the creativity it brings to daily life.

Organizer: The Global Japan Studies Network (GJS)

Co-organizer: Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia, the University of Tokyo (IASA)

Contact: gjs[at]ioc.u-tokyo.ac.jp