Ritual, Authenticity, and Human Flourishing: Theories from Classical China

This lecture is conducted as part of the Shaw Foundation Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series

Synopsis
This lecture explores the sophisticated theories of ritual and human flourishing in classical Chinese philosophy and their relevance to contemporary Western thought. By examining key philosophical perspectives, it argues that classical Chinese traditions offer valuable insights for modern discussions on ethics, social cohesion, and well-being.


Speaker Biography
Michael Puett is the Walter C. Klein Professor of Chinese History and Anthropology and the Director of the Asia Center at Harvard University.  His interests are focused on the inter-relations between religion, philosophy, anthropology, and history, with the hope of bringing the study of China into larger historical, comparative, and theoretical frameworks.  Michael is the recipient of a Harvard College Professorship for excellence in undergraduate teaching, the Joseph R. Levenson Memorial Teaching Prize, the Star Family Prize for Excellence in Advising, and the Everett Mendelsohn Excellence in Mentoring Award.  Since 2012 his course on classical Chinese ethical and political theory has been one of the highest enrolled undergraduate courses at Harvard.


Moderator Biography
Ng Teng Kuan is Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at SMU’s College of Integrative Studies. His primary research focuses on the interdisciplinary study of religion and cinema in East Asia. His academic work also extends to the fields of Buddhist studies, Chinese and comparative philosophy, World Christianity, and religion and economics. His current book project explores how Buddhist wisdom is diffused, visualised, and cultivated in contemporary China through film and related media practices. Before becoming an academic, he worked in study abroad and experiential learning in China, the U.S., and Singapore.