The Center for Process Studies was established in 1973 through the joint efforts of David Ray Griffin and John B. Cobb, Jr. within the Claremont School of Theology. This institution became a primary venue for promoting process thought, marking a significant development in the application of the philosophical framework proposed by Alfred North Whitehead.
Academic Formation
Born in Wilbur, Oregon, in 1939, Griffin began his intellectual trajectory within the Disciples of Christ tradition. His initial theological education at Bushnell University, then known as Northwest Christian College, proved dissatisfying, prompting a shift toward philosophical inquiry. He completed a master's degree at the University of Oregon before attending a lecture series by Paul Tillich. Eventually, he pursued doctoral studies at Claremont Graduate University, where he earned a PhD in 1970.
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Influenced by John B. Cobb, Jr., Griffin transitioned into process theology, drawing extensively from the work of Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne. He taught at the University of Dayton, focusing on the intersection of Eastern religions, theology, and epistemology. His work sought to bridge the gap between religious belief and the mechanistic worldview of modern science, advocating for a panexperientialist ontology to address problems such as mind-body interaction.
Political and Historical Analysis
Following his long career in academia, Griffin shifted his focus toward historical and political analysis, specifically concerning United States foreign policy. He authored The New Pearl Harbor in 2004, which questioned the official accounts of the September 11 attacks and advocated for expanded investigations. He subsequently edited collections and wrote critiques of the 9/11 Commission Report, becoming a founding member of Scholars for 9/11 Truth.
Fast facts
- Born: 1939, Wilbur
- Died: 2022
- Education: Bushnell University, University of Oregon, Claremont Graduate University
- Primary Fields: Metaphysics, Ontology, Epistemology, Theology
- Academic Tenure: University of Dayton
- Collaborator: John B. Cobb, Jr.
- Major Work: The New Pearl Harbor
- Citizenship: United States
Questions readers ask
What was David Ray Griffin's primary philosophical interest?
He focused on process theology, utilizing the work of Alfred North Whitehead to address issues in epistemology and ontology.
What is the Center for Process Studies?
It is a research facility established in 1973 at the Claremont School of Theology to promote process thought.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Dayton
- Fields: ontology, epistemology and theology
