Peace Stories
April 2003
Banner photo: Nara, Japan [©SEKAI BUNKA PHOTO]
Philosophy for Life
Dr. Marinoff's lecture at the SGI-USA New York Culture Center
Some 200 New Yorkers listened to Dr. Lou Marinoff, president of the American Philosophical Practitioners Association (APPA), lecturing on the theme "Nichiren Buddhism, American Philosophy and Mass Culture" at the SGI-USA New York Culture Center on January 16.
A former professor and chair of philosophy at City College of New York, Dr. Marinoff is the author of Plato, Not Prozac, which has been widely read in more than 40 countries. In his lecture, Dr. Marinoff spoke about the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, who actively engaged in dialogue with ordinary citizens, and stated his belief that philosophy is not mere theory but something that should be applied to one's daily life. He also maintained that the Buddhist concept of the Middle Way, as practiced by the SGI, is necessary for a spiritual revitalization of the U.S.A.
Dr. Marinoff lectured at Soka University of America in California, and Soka University in Tokyo, Japan, in February, where he stressed the importance of creating new values.
