Dr Joshua Andrews

Lecturer in Eastern Religions

j.andrews@bangor.ac.uk

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Dr Joshua Andrews
Dr. Joshua Andrews is a lecturer in Asian Religions at Bangor University, where he also serves as the Director of Student Engagement in the School of History, Law, and Social Sciences. His area of expertise lies in Asian Religions, with a particular focus on Hinduism and Buddhism. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Andrews has developed a genuine interest in Existentialism, which led him to complete his PhD, exploring the relationship between the existential thinking of Soren Kierkegaard and Buddhist philosophy.
 
Joshua's current research endeavors revolve around the intersection of religion, gender, and sexuality. His research strives to shed light on the diverse perspectives encompassed within these intricate areas, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.
 
Joshua's research interests have influenced his teaching, leading him to develop a range of modules that examine Asian religions and their responses to issues such as sex, gender, the environmental crisis, and human rights issues. Alongside Asian religions, Joshua also teaches existentialism, ethics, and political philosophy.
 
Beyond his roles within the university, Joshua humbly serves as the co-chair of the National Centre for Religious Education in Wales, collaborating with esteemed colleagues to advance religious education throughout the country. Additionally, he has the privilege of sharing his knowledge and pedagogical expertise by teaching on the PGCE Secondary program at Bangor University, contributing to the development of future educators.
 
Throughout his career, Joshua has dedicated himself to designing a range of assessments that promote critical thinking, effective communication, and creative problem-solving. These assessments, such as think tank assignments, panel discussions, curated music playlists with commentaries, and engaging podcasts, aim to cultivate invaluable skills in students, preparing them for the challenges of the modern world.
 

Name: Joshua Andrews

Position: Lecturer

Email: j.andrews@bangor.ac.uk

Phone: 01248 382103

Location: T22

Modules taught

  • Living the Good Life: Introduction to Ethics
  • Existentialism 
  • Political Philosophy 
  • Applied Ethics
  • Hinduism in the Modern World
  • Buddhism in the Modern World
  • Sex and Society
  • Tales of Might and Morality
  • Religious Education
  • Independent Study
  • Dissertation

Postgraduate Project Opportunities

I am interested in supervising doctoral students working in any of the following areas:

  • Hinduism
  • Buddhism (especially the Theravada traditions)
  • Comparative Philosophy (particularly in the fields of Asian Philosophy, existentialism and ethics)
  • Gender and Asian Religions
  • The intersection between religion and sexuality 

2023

  • Launch of the National Centre for Religious Education in Wales at the Eisteddfod

    The Welsh-medium launch of the National Centre for Religious Education in Wales was held at the Bangor University stall at the Llyn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod 2023. Joshua Andrews and I presented as co-directors of the Centre. Interesting contributions were given by Emilia Johnson, Daniel Latham, Modlen Lynch, and Natasha Roberts, in addition to a fascinating discussion with Kristoffer Hughes, the Chief of the Anglesey Druid Order. We were also able to announce that the first Honorary Fellow of the Centre is the National Poet for Wales, Hanan Issa.

    6 Aug 2023

    Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Public lecture/debate/seminar (Contributor)

Administrative Roles

  • Admissions Tutor (Philosophy, Ethics and Religion)
  • School Liaisons Officer
  • Director of Student Engagement 

Recognition/Awards

  • 2017: ‘Postgraduate Teacher of the Year’, Bangor University Student-Led Teaching Award.
  • 2019: 'Student Engagement Award', Bangor University Student-Led Teaching Award
  • 2022: 'Student Voice Award', Bangor University Student-Led Teaching Award