ֱEstablishes Professorship in Jain Studies
The Department of Philosophy in ֱ’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters recently announced the establishment of the Bhagavan Sambhavnath Endowed Professorship in Jain Studies. This is part of a broader effort to support ongoing teaching, research and engagement in Jain philosophy, which is characterized by its calls for non-harm, restraint from attachment, and the embrace of many perspectives. Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, Jain principles encourage the cultivation of kindness, ethical discipline and a respect for all living beings.
“The ideals of Jainism are deeply relevant, offering guidance for modern social and ecological challenges and inviting us to envision communities grounded in peace, thoughtful coexistence and sustainable action,” said Michael Horswell, Ph.D., dean of the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters. “We are profoundly grateful to this group of donors whose collective vision and their trust in our university’s mission has resulted in a confluence of philanthropy and philosophy.”
The endowed professorship is made possible by the support of a group of donors, led by Dr. Prithi Khotari, a member of the college’s advisory board.
“The Department of Philosophy hopes this marks the beginning of a sustained engagement with Jain philosophical thought and looks forward to future collaborations with Jain Studies programs throughout Florida and across the country,” said Nicholas Baima, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Philosophy.
There is currently a national search being conducted for a Jain philosopher. The Department of Philosophy recently hosted the Jain Philosophy Conference, in which scholars from across the country, as well as the United Kingdom, came to explore the rich philosophical foundations of Jainism. Topics included the nature of soul; Jain environmental ethics; and the critique of one-sided epistemology.
For more information, contact Dr. Nicholas Baima, nbaima@fau.edu.
-FAU-
Tags: philosophy | education