Erik J. Hammerstrom
Professor of Religion
- Professional
- Biography
Education
- Ph.D., Religious Studies, Indiana University, 2010
- M.A., Religion (Asian), University of Hawai'i, 2003
- B.A., Sarah Lawrence College, 1997
Areas of Emphasis or Expertise
- Korean and East Asian Religions
- Early modern Chinese Buddhism
Books
- The Huayan University Network: The Teaching and Practice of Avataṃsaka Buddhism in Twentieth-Century China (Columbia University Press, Sheng Yen Series in Chinese Buddhist Studies 2020) : View Book
- The Science of Chinese Buddhism: Early Twentieth - Century Engagements (Columbia University Press, Sheng Yen Series in Chinese Buddhist Studies 2015) : View Book
Biography
Erik Hammerstrom has had a deep affinity with Buddhism since he was young and has spent his entire adult life in its study. At PLU, he teaches a variety of classes that all touch on Buddhism in some way, including courses on the history and religions of East Asia, and Asian American immigration history.
In his research, he has published books and articles on the intellectual and institutional history of Chinese Buddhism during the early twentieth century, focusing on Buddhist responses to elements of modernity, such as the discourses surrounding both religion and modern science.
When not engaged in the edifying pursuits of teaching and study, he supports his local Buddhist community and enjoys indie and mainstream tabletop role-playing games. He has also undergone extensive training as an interfaith chaplain.
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