The philosophy department is pleased to welcome Pragati Sahni, Visiting Professor from Delhi University.
Pragati Sahni is Associate Professor at the Department of Philosophy, University of Delhi. Her areas of interests include Environmental Philosophy, Ethics and Early Buddhism. She completed her PhD from the University of London and has been the recipient of the Commonwealth Scholarship. Her books include Environmental Ethics in Buddhism: A Virtues Approach and Understanding Ethics (co-edited).
She will be teaching two courses in the winter semester, Asian Philosophy (PHIL 2700) and Buddhist Ethics (PHIL 4320A/PHIL 5350W). More details:
PHIL 2700, Asian Philosophy: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:05 – 11:25 (Course outline will be posted shortly)
An examination of South Asian and East Asian philosophical texts, from the period of the Upanishads and early Buddhism in India to modern philosophical movements. Historical sources may include Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Confucian or Taoist texts, with a focus on metaphysical, epistemological or ethical themes.
Prerequisite(s): second-year standing.
Lectures three hours a week.
PHIL 4320A/5350W, Buddhist Ethics: Wednesdays, 11:35 – 2:25
Moral themes are considered an integral part of Buddhism. This seminar intends to explore textual evidence to understand the nature of moral reflection in Buddhism. Selections from primary Pali texts in translation will be copiously read along with their recent interpretations by scholars of Buddhist studies to trace the framework of morality. Metaphysical and soteriological issues will be discussed as they arise in relation to ethics. The seminar will also examine and assess the application of Buddhist morality to some modern day ethical dilemmas. The challenges of applying ancient principles to contemporary issues will be reflected upon.
Prerequisite: 4th year undergraduate in a philosophy program, or MA in philosophy.