Casey Ray Collins

Casey Ray Collins is a Sessional Lecturer in the Department of Asian Studies at the University of British Columbia (UBC), specializing in Modern Japanese Religions. He holds a Ph.D. (2023), M.A. (2015), and B.A. (2009) from UBC. His research focuses on Buddhist Studies, New Religions, and the intersection of religious narratives with material culture. He has taught courses such as 'Introduction to Buddhism' (ASIA 250) and contributed to scholarly publications on topics like Japanese Esoteric Buddhism and religious contramodernism.

Education: Ph.D., M.A., and B.A. in Asian Studies from UBC. Research emphasizes sociological and phenomenological approaches to religion, charismatic leadership, and sacred narratives. His doctoral work examined Shinnyo-en, a Japanese New Religion, through hagiography and devotion.

Publications highlight his expertise in Buddhist material culture and the adaptation of tradition in modern contexts. Teaching responsibilities include undergraduate courses on Buddhism and Japanese religious practices.