Keiji Nishitani
- Born:
- February 27, 1900, Unazaki-chō, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
- Died:
- November 24, 1990, Kyoto, Japan
- Nationality:
- Japanese
- Profession(s):
- Philosopher
Early Life and Education
- Nishitani studied philosophy at Kyoto University under Kitaro Nishida.
- He was deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism from an early age.
- He pursued further studies in Germany, engaging with Western philosophical traditions.
Career and Major Achievements
- Professor of Philosophy at Kyoto University from 1943 until his retirement.
- A leading figure in the Kyoto School of philosophy.
- Developed a unique philosophical synthesis integrating Zen Buddhist thought with Western existentialism and phenomenology.
- Known for his critical engagement with nihilism and attempts to find meaning in a post-metaphysical world.
- His work on the "topology of emptiness" has been particularly influential.
Notable Works
- Nihilism (1949)
- Religion and Nothingness (1961)
- Was ist Religion? (1982) (German translation of Shūkyō to wa nani ka)
- Collected Works (Nishitani Keiji Chosakushū)
Legacy and Impact
Keiji Nishitani's philosophical work remains a significant contribution to 20th-century thought, particularly in its cross-cultural engagement between Eastern and Western traditions. His exploration of nihilism and the search for meaning continue to resonate with scholars and students interested in philosophy, religion, and cultural studies. The many existing references to the published work of Keiji Nishitani demonstrates its enduring appeal. Someone seeking 'keiji nishitani biography samples' will find that his unique perspective on existence continues to inspire philosophical inquiry.