معرفی
Benn Banasik is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, affiliated with the School of Humanities, Creative Industries and Social Sciences. He is currently pursuing a PhD thesis exploring perpetual engagement in video games through philosophical and theological frameworks, drawing on thinkers like Albert Camus and Carl Gustav Jung. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Theology with Distinction.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts Honours (First Class), University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Theology, University of Newcastle
Research Interests: Benn Banasik focuses on the intersection of philosophy of religion, religious studies, and video game studies. His work examines how perpetual gaming experiences mirror apophatic religious practices, applying concepts like flow theory (from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi) to virtual environments. He also investigates comparative religious studies, including Jewish and Christian hermeneutics, and the role of gaming in mediating religious experience.
Publication Trends: Benn's research spans theological exegesis, virtual religion, and gaming culture. His work bridges classical religious concepts (e.g., Midrash Pesher) with modern digital phenomena like open-world games, emphasizing themes of perpetual journeys and teleological meaning.
Scientific Awards
- First Class Honours with Faculty Medal, University of Newcastle (2016)
Teaching Experience: Benn has taught at multiple institutions, including the University of Sydney and Australian Catholic University, in courses such as Modern Religious Thought, Philosophy of Religion, and The Birth of Christianity. His pedagogical roles include lecturer, tutor, and course designer.
