Morgan Koster

Morgan Koster

Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia, Reimagining India Study Tour

Introduction

Kia Ora! My name is Morgan Koster. I was born in California but grew up across England and New Zealand as well. I study Philosophy, Anthropology and Political Science at the University of Waikato. 

Although I have never been anywhere near India or any part of Asia, I have been intrigued by India for quite some time. While academically, philosophy is mainly focused on Western schools of thought, I try to look further than this when I can to explore areas of personal intrigue. 

I was introduced to Indian and Eastern philosophy when looking into the inspiration and guiding values behind the counterculture movement of the 60s and 70s. This led me to delve further into Eastern philosophies. I find that they often portray the world so magically and profoundly, yet with an indescribable truth and stunning simplicity. 

I never imagined I would get such a wonderful opportunity to connect so intimately with ideas, ways of life, worldviews, etc., that I have loved from afar. I am particularly excited about visiting Gandhi’s ashram and Rishikesh (The Yoga Capital of the World). I look forward to observing how India’s rich religious, spiritual, and philosophical history moulds social organisation and is reflected in everyday life.