Origins:
Since its introduction into
China in the Han Dynasty, Buddhism has grown and developed for nearly
two thousand years. It has had a profound impact on Chinese philosophy,
religion, literature, phonology,astronomy, music, the arts, architecture,
and social customs. Buddhism has served as an essential part of Chinese
culture, and merits further comprehensive study.
Modern Buddhist studies
has enjoyed a research history of more than a hundred years in Western
and Japanese universities. Recently, Mainland China has also added valuable
contributions to the field. In Taiwan, on the other hand, a considerable
number of scholars are devoted to Buddhist-related studies, yet they
lack collaboration and coalescence. The Center for Buddhist Studies
seeks to fill this need by promoting integrative and interdisciplinary
research, and providing the means for efficient international academic
exchange of information.
Objectives:
The Center aims to aid in
the study of Buddhism. It will put in touch experts and scholars at
and outside the university for promoting in-depth inquiry into the specific
properties, historical development, values, and modern interpretations
of Buddhism.
Research Direction:
A. Scholarly Work: Four major
research areas are designated as follows: (1) Philosophy (2) History
(3) Literature (4) The Arts B. Data Collection: An on-line databank
cataloguing Buddhist literature in Chinese and English. Free access
is granted to all researchers around the world.
Primary
Activities:
Major activities in progress
include: (1) Research Projects: a) to apply for specific research projects
to the National Science Council, Ministry of Education, or Private Foundations.
b) To conduct research commissioned by government, industry, or monastic
communities. (2) Conferences: To hold conferences on issues pertinent
to Buddhism. (3) Publications: To publish Buddhist research and conference
proceedings.
Finance:
(1) Research grants or commissioned
project funds. (2) Donations from individuals and organizations.
Research Staff
and Facilities:
(1) Full- and part-time faculty
members of the College of Liberal Arts, NTU, who are interested in Buddhist
studies. (2) Computer facilities of the college. (3) Book and journal
collection of the college.
Organization:
Director | Administrative
Assistant | Convener of Arts Group, Convener of Literature Group, Convener
of History Group, Convener of Philosophy Group.
Future
Perspective:
With the aim to advance the
academic study of Buddhism, the Center seeks to integrate the current
research conducted in disciplines such as philosophy, history, Chinese
literature, anthropology, and art history, as well as to work collaboratively
with scholars domestically and internationally.
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