Just finalized the description for my Spring course, a new one:
BUDDHISM AND MODERN THOUGHT
This
course uses Buddhist traditions, ideas and questions to reimagine and renarrate
the story of modern thought. After engaging debates about the "invention
of Buddhism" in 19th century Europe, the class explores Buddhist influence
in the history of western ideas, "Buddhist modernism" in Asia and the
West, and Buddhist understandings of modernity and postmodernity in our own
time. Students also conduct extended research on a figure or movement of their
choice.
Sometimes I think I have way too much fun in this line of work of mine - but at least students and others get to share the ride!