Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Cultivation of Mind, Body, and Natural Environment in the Chinese and Japanese Traditions: A Conference in Honor of Tom Kasulis

April 9-11, 2015
The Ohio State University

We are delighted to honor Professor Tom Kasulis with a conference on the occasion of his retirement from the Ohio State University in Spring 2015.  Featuring internationally-renowned scholars of East Asian traditions, it will reflect Tom's career as an authority and teacher on the East Asian traditions of philosophy, nature, religion, and culture.  Tom's work has touched on the lives of many at Ohio State, ranging from Comparative Studies (his principal department) to the Center for the Study of Religion (of which he is currently Director).  The conference reflects his stature at Ohio State and around the world, while celebrating the diversity and profundity of his publications and pedagogy.  Co-sponsors include the Departments of Comparative Studies, East Asian Languages and Literatures, Philosophy, Design, and Landscape Architecture; the Environmental Science Network; and the Centers of East Asian Studies, of the Study of Religion, and of Medieval and Renaissance Studies.

Conference schedule (provisory):

Thursday, April 9:

  • Opening reception in the early evening, followed by a film viewing and discussion of Journey of the Universe (2011), with writer and executive producer Mary Evelyn Tucker.

Friday, April 10:

  • The Natural Environment:  morning session of academic presentations by Roger Ames (Professor of Philosophy, University of Hawai'i at Manoa) and Graham Parkes (Professor of Philosophy, University College Cork
  • Afternoon visit to the newly renovated Japanese Garden at the Dawes Arboretum, together with horti/cultural presentations and discussions.
  • Early evening lecture by Graham Parkes, followed by a reception.

Saturday, April 11:

  • Philosophy, Religion, Culture:  morning and afternoon sessions of academic presentations by scholars including James Heisig (Professor, Faculty of Arts and Letters, Nanzan University)
  • Evening banquet.