Japanese Philosophy: Zen, Aesthetics, Nothingness

About this course

The course examines Japanese aesthetic concepts including mono no aware, wabi, sabi, yugen, iki and kire. These ideas are considered alongside the philosophical theme of “nothingness”, drawing on existential and phenomenological approaches associated with Zen and the Kyoto School. Discussion connects traditional and contemporary philosophy and culture, with examples from literature, cinema, theatre, idol pop and sculpture. Teaching combines short slide presentations with questions and seminar discussion.

What you'll learn

• Identify several key concepts in Japanese aesthetics.
• Explain their basic philosophical significance in relation to forms of nothingness.

Is this course right for you?

This all-levels course is intended for participants willing to listen to and consider perspectives they may not share. It does not require knowledge of Japanese, as the material is presented in English. The seminar format involves shared discussion and thinking about philosophical and cultural ideas.

• No knowledge of Japanese is required.
• An openness to considering differing viewpoints is more relevant than a specific level of skill.

Before you go

• Slides, readings and links are available through Google Classroom, whose use is recommended.
• Participants may wish to bring materials for taking notes.