Research Interests: I am interested in the modern religious thought of Muslims, with a comparative interest in Christians- theologians and lay. Particularly I study the question of the justifications of religious commitment - the similarities and differences in how Muslims and Christians articulate their reasons/motivations/warrants for their personal (and collective) faith, their notions of the concept of the "Word of God," and the consequences of their beliefs in informing and forming meaningful lives. Corollary, I am fascinated by the problems and possibilities for individuals to consciously determine (and carry through) their religious commitments in a pluralistic society. I principally rely on methods and principles of phenomenology, hermeneutics, and ethnography to further understanding others' religious experiences, enter into a more empathetic relationship with the other, and through that conversation assist each other to have a richer and more profound appreciation of the meanings of human experience.
Academic Background & Goals: I grew up in Oceanside, CA and I completed the Bachelor's degree in Child Development at San Diego State University in 2004. After a two year-stint in teaching grade school, I moved to the Midwest and completed an MA in Religious Studies at the University of Iowa. I am very grateful to have returned to Southern California to begin my PhD at Riverside here this 2009-2010 school year and get to work closely with my fellow grad students, this extraordinary faculty of religious studies, and the undergrads I will be a TA for in the Winter quarter.
Extracurricular: During my 'free time', you will probably be able to find me at the Student Recreation Center playing basketball pick-up games. I also enjoy soccer, tennis, and playing the clarinet; spending time with family and friends; mentoring and tutoring children and youth; (learning to cook) & eating Middle Eastern and Asian foods often; and rejoice as much as possible laughing with, and about, the wonderful paradoxes of life.
Community Service Project: I am in the process of developing "The Identity Walkabout" - a 3 weeks to year-long course/forum in which youth and young adults are assisted to become self-conscious determiners of their own epistemological commitments, life principles, ethical values, and character. In this program, they examine closely a wide-range of philosophical, religious, political, and cultural agencies (from Buddhism to Marxism to Epicureanism to pop culture) that make claims as authorities on how people should think, believe, and behave; look at what evidence they provide as being authorities, and what they actually say about living a meaningful life. A self-identity is not taught; rather the Identity Walkabout seminar facilitates a process of developing one's own identity and value commitments through close examination of diverse agencies' claims to authority, deep self-searching, discussion, and reflection on what the young person is finding to be most warranted or justified for him/her and why.
If you're interested in collaborating with me in developing or facilitating this seminar, or with any other common academic interests please do contact me.
You can contact me at dpsch001@student.ucr.edu
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