David B. and Mary H. Gamble Professor in Religion, Religious Studies, Emeritus (1980-2018)
B.A., San Diego State University; Ph.D., University of Iowa
Appointed In
1980
Area of specialization: Buddhism
Prof. Wright taught courses on the religious traditions of East and South Asia—Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Shinto and others—focusing on the historical development and philosophies generated in Japan, Korea, China, Tibet, India, and the countries of Southeast Asia. He also taught courses related to the philosophy of religion. His area of specialization and research is Buddhist philosophy, particularly the types of Buddhism that were developed in China and Japan—Hua-yen Buddhism and Zen or Chan Buddhism. Wright is the author or co-author of a number of books, including The Six Perfections: Buddhism and the Cultivation of Character (2009) and Philosophical Meditations on Zen Buddhism (2008).