Paradoxicality of Institution, De-Institutionalization and the Counter-Institutional—A Case Study in Classical Chinese Chan Buddhist Thought

Abstract:
Mahāyāna Buddhist philosophy of relationality and non-duality. It will better characterize the Chan understanding of the paradoxicality of institution and the subtle Chan relationship of being “with and against” institution.
It should be noted that this examination will only take the form of a case study, limiting itself to the major texts and teachings of the Hongzhou school, one of the most influential schools in classical Chan Buddhism, since it would be impossible for this lecture to examine the entirety of classical Chan thought on this issue. It should also be noted that following contemporary philosophical discourses on institution or institutionalization, the lecture would discuss the issue of institution or institutionalization in terms of the broad meanings of these terms, which go beyond the merely material side of social/religious (or monastic) ordering/organization. They involve all kinds of established/formalized social-cultural system or systematization, including ideology, philosophy, religion and its canonized teachings. In addition, the use of the term de-institutionalization should be distinguished from non-institutionalization, namely, from the sense of the absence of institutionalization.

Delivered in Putonghua

All are welcome

Co-organizers: Institute of Chinese Studies, CUHK

The presentation will be given in Chinese. Both Chinese and English versions of the full paper will be available on site.