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Recent faculty publications from the University of Washington encompass topics such as yoga, language education, dynamic futures trading, and beyond.

The latest faculty publications from the University of Washington originate from departments like Asian languages and literature, applied mathematics, and the Jackson School of International Studies.

Mapping a new lineage of yoga

Sunila S. Kale and Christian Lee Novetzke, both educators at the Jackson School of International Studies, worked together to release “The Yoga of Power: Yoga as Political Thought and Practice in India.”

Yoga encompasses a vast array of meanings, though it primarily pertains to philosophies or techniques aimed at mastering the mind or body. Kale and Novetzke advocate for a broader interpretation, asserting that yoga has consistently represented political thought and action.

“This is a book about yoga, but it does not focus on that yoga. Our work does not highlight the type of yoga practiced in contemporary studios,” they express in the introduction. “Instead, the yoga discussed in this book reflects the practices of poets and rulers, warriors and legends, princes and activists. It is the yoga of those in leadership striving to govern and of rebels resisting colonial domination.”

The authors delineate a new lineage of yoga, commencing with the term’s usage in some of India’s ancient texts, including the Rig Veda, the Mahābhārata, the Bhagavad Gītā, and the Arthaśāstra. Within the context of these works, yoga encompasses everything from warfare and strategy to governance, espionage, taxation, and social welfare.

This journey leads to modern times, wherein Kale and Novetzke scrutinize the writings and speeches of nationalist political figures from the era, including Gandhi, Aurobindo, Ambedkar, and the Raja of Aundh. Their interpretation of yoga incorporates its long-established political implications, illuminating South Asian political thought and history.

They remark: “The yoga we investigate here resonates from ancient times in a manner that strongly influences the current political landscape. This is a work about the yoga that defines how individuals exert influence over others, objects, ideas, and political frameworks. This is a discourse on the yoga of power.”

For further inquiries, reach out to Kale at [email protected] and Novetzke at [email protected].

Evolution and origins of the Chinese script

Zev Handel, a professor in Asian languages and literature, has recently authored “Chinese Characters Across Asia: How the Chinese Script Came to Write Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese.”

This publication delves into the history of the Chinese script, specifically how it has been modified and adapted over two millennia for non-Chinese languages. In tracing these transitions, Handel addresses popular misconceptions and myths regarding Chinese writing, ideas of a universal script, and the future of Chinese characters.

“This work narrates the captivating story behind the thousands-of-years-long history of Chinese writing,” Handel stated. “With engaging anecdotes, examples, and visuals, it demystifies Chinese writing and encourages readers to acquire new insights and perspectives regarding the association between written and spoken language.”

The book adopts a non-technical approach designed to be easily understood by readers lacking any prior knowledge of Chinese.

“I feel proud and thrilled to present topics that have captivated me throughout my academic journey in a manner that welcomes everyone to share in my intrigue,” Handel expressed.

For more information, contact Handel at [email protected].

Newest edition of “Korean for Dummies”

EunYoung Won, a teaching professor at UW in Asian languages and literature, acted as the primary co-author for the second edition of “Korean for Dummies.”

The newly launched edition comprises 20 thematically structured chapters that cover a broad spectrum of everyday topics, including Hangeul, Korean grammar, travel, shopping, employment, and dining experiences.

Each chapter aims to introduce practical phrases, essential vocabulary, cultural insights, and useful language tips, equipping learners with the necessary tools to engage confidently and effectively in various real-life situations. The book provides relevant and accessible language support.

“This isn’t a conventional language textbook filled with intricate grammar rules,” Won stated. “Rather, it serves as a practical reference guide for learners aiming to converse in Korean with confidence.”

The publication emphasizes real-life scenarios like ordering food, shopping at local stores, or making travel plans, while sharing cultural notes that enhance comprehension of Korean practices and customs.

Ideal for beginners, the book promotes pronunciation practice, conversational strategies, and the use of polite language in context. It also acts as a valuable asset for anyone wishing to enrich their understanding of Korean culture through language.

“This book is filled with cultural treasures and practical advice that helps learners grasp the essentials of Korean,” Won asserted.

The endeavor is a collaborative effort between Won and Jeongyi Lee from Kennesaw State University.

For additional details, contact Won at [email protected].

A stochastic control approach to dynamic futures trading

“Stochastic Control Approach to Futures Trading” is a recent publication by Tim Leung, a professor of applied mathematics.

Futures are pivotal in financial markets; millions of contracts are exchanged on futures exchanges worldwide daily. Recently, futures have been integrated into a diverse array of financial assets and have emerged as a primary driver behind their price dynamics.

A variety of stochastic models are formulated to encapsulate the distinct characteristics of various market regimes and dynamics. They serve as valuable tools for pricing futures contracts and constructing futures portfolios.

In this book, Leung and his co-author Yang Zhou, a UW alumnus with a doctorate in applied mathematics, examine the mathematical challenges associated with futures trading in different market scenarios. The publication presents a number of numerical examples to illustrate optimal strategies.

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trading tactics.

“This publication was inspired by a collection of research initiatives on futures valuation and trading,” remarked Leung, who holds the Boeing Endowed Chair in Applied Mathematics and the computational finance and risk management, or CFRM, program.

“Graduate scholars at UW in applied mathematics and within the CFRM program engaged in our sessions on dynamic futures portfolio optimization, while others participated in the initial review of various chapter drafts,” stated Leung. “We appreciate this lively research atmosphere.”

For further details, reach out to Leung at [email protected].

Emphasizing concept-oriented language teaching

“Concept-based Language Instruction: Usage-based Linguistics and Sociocultural Theory in Teaching Japanese” demonstrates how concept-focused language teaching can be successfully incorporated into foreign language education.

Released in January, the book was collaboratively authored by Amy Snyder Ohta, UW professor of Asian languages and literature, Rie Tsujihara, UW lecturer of Japanese, and Kyoko Masuda from Georgia Tech.

Concept-based language instruction is rooted in the link between theory, research, and practice. This approach utilizes visual resources known as SCOBAs – or schemas for a complete orientational basis of action – to convey precise scientific concepts.

“This is one of the pioneering texts in a developing area of research, and the first pertaining to Japanese,” Ohta expressed. “We are thrilled to see it published, and hope it serves as a source of motivation for researchers and foreign language educators.”

For additional information, contact Ohta at [email protected].

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