Richard John Bowring (born 6 February 1947) is an English academic serving as Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Cambridge and an Honorary Fellow of Downing College. He was Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, from 2000 to 2012. In 2013, Bowring was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun 3rd Class, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon for contributions to the development of Japanese studies, Japanese language education and the promotion of mutual understanding between Japan and the United Kingdom.

Academic career

Richard Bowring attended Blundell's School and Downing College, Cambridge, graduating with a BA in Oriental Studies in 1968. He completed his doctoral thesis in the same field at the University of Cambridge in 1973. In addition to Cambridge, Bowring has taught at Princeton University and Columbia University. In 2013, Bowring was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun 3rd Class, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon for contributions to the development of Japanese studies, Japanese language education and the promotion of mutual understanding between Japan and the United Kingdom. Since 1985 Bowring has been professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Cambridge. He has published broadly on a number of different international and political subjects in leading journals and newspapers. Additionally, he has produced a number of monographs and books on the politics and culture of East Asia.

Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge

Bowring was Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, from 2000 until 2012. During his time in office, he oversaw a major expansion of the college, including the construction of Ann's Court and several neo-revivalist Victorian stone and brick buildings, which were designed by the controversial neo-classical architect Demetri Porphyrios. During his tenure, the college became more oriented towards excellence in politics, history, and international studies.

Honours and prizes

Publications

Books Articles in Journals and Books Translations

Sources