The Significance of an Honorary PhD in Martial Arts:
A Journey of Dedication, Research, and American
Clyde Surrett, Sensei
Innovation Abstract
This paper explores the significance of an honorary PhD in martial arts awarded by Shinja Martial Arts University under the guidance of Hanshi John Enger. It reflects the recipient’s extensive journey through decades of training, independent research on pressure points, and a passion for analyzing kata bunkai, all rooted in an identity as an American martial artist. Despite skepticism from some in the martial arts community, the author asserts that the value of this honor lies in personal growth, contributions to the field, and a commitment to lifelong learning, rather than external validation or claims of mastery. The paper emphasizes the author’s dedication to honoring martial arts traditions while innovating as a perpetual student.
Introduction
Martial arts is a discipline that blends physical skill, philosophical insight, and cultural heritage, often recognized through ranks, titles, or, in rare cases, academic honors. The author, an American martial artist with thousands of hours of training, research, and sparring experience, was awarded an honorary PhD in Martial Arts Science by Shinja Martial Arts University under the tutelage of Hanshi John Enger, a renowned figure in Christian martial arts. This honor, conferred for years of dedicated training, independent research, and contributions to the field, represents a milestone in a lifelong journey of learning. While some in the martial arts community may question the legitimacy of such a credential, the author remains steadfast in their identity as a perpetual student, honoring martial arts traditions while forging a distinctly American approach to the art.
The Shinja Martial Arts University and the Honorary PhD
Shinja Martial Arts University, a Christian martial arts organization, is committed to providing quality instruction from a Biblical perspective, fostering technical excellence, fellowship, and character development. Led by Soke John C. Enger, a 10th Dan and founder of Shinja Buke Ryu Kenpo, the university comprises a Master’s and Headmaster’s Council, Master’s College of Martial Arts, Chaplain Corps, Ministerial Association, and Hall of Honors, all dedicated to supporting martial artists who align with its Christian values. The organization emphasizes practical self-defense and spiritual growth, offering systematic curricula through DVD programs from white belt to black belt, taught from a Christian perspective (Shinja Martial Arts University, www.shinja.us).
The honorary PhD in Martial Arts Science, as awarded to the author, is a non-academic distinction (honoris causa) recognizing exceptional contributions to the martial arts. Unlike traditional academic doctorates, this honor acknowledges the author’s decades of training, independent research, and practical experience under Hanshi John Enger’s mentorship. The award reflects the university’s mission to honor martial artists who demonstrate technical proficiency, scholarly contributions, and commitment to the art’s ethical and spiritual dimensions.
A Journey of Training and Research
The author’s path to the honorary PhD spans thousands of hours of training, encompassing both formal dojo practice and informal “backyard fights” that tested techniques in real-world scenarios. This extensive experience includes hundreds of sparring matches, honing skills in practical self-defense and combat effectiveness. The author’s dedication extends beyond physical training to independent research, particularly in the study of pressure points and their effects on the human body. This research explores how precise strikes to specific anatomical points can influence physiological responses, enhancing the efficacy of self-defense techniques.
Additionally, the author has a passion for breaking down kata to study bunkai, the practical applications of traditional forms. This analytical approach involves dissecting choreographed movements to uncover their combat utility, revealing techniques for self-defense, control, and neutralization of opponents. While the author deeply respects the Japanese origins of many martial arts traditions, they assert that they do not require the permission or approval of Japanese system masters to pursue this work. As an American martial artist, the author embraces a spirit of innovation, blending traditional techniques with practical adaptations suited to modern contexts, while still honoring the memory of martial arts pioneers in their teaching.
The Significance of the Honorary PhD
The honorary PhD from Shinja Martial Arts University represents a culmination of the author’s lifelong commitment to martial arts. It acknowledges not only their technical proficiency but also their scholarly contributions through independent research and teaching. The award aligns with the university’s philosophy of fostering “martial arts unbound,” free from non-scriptural traditions, and emphasizes practical self-defense over sport or competition (Shinja Martial Arts University, www.shinja.us). For the author, this honor is a recognition of their contributions to the martial arts community, including teaching, research, and the development of practical self-defense methodologies.
As an American martial artist, the author brings a unique perspective to the field, emphasizing adaptability and real-world applicability. Their extensive sparring experience, both in the dojo and in informal settings, underscores a commitment to testing techniques under pressure, ensuring their effectiveness in realistic scenarios. The study of pressure points and bunkai further demonstrates a scholarly approach, blending empirical research with practical application to advance the art.
Challenges of Recognition in the Martial Arts Community
Despite the significance of the honorary PhD, the author acknowledges that some in the martial arts community do not fully respect or recognize this credential. This skepticism may arise from the non-traditional nature of an honorary degree from a martial arts institution, as well as differing views on what constitutes authority in the martial arts. Traditionalists may prioritize lineage, formal ranks, or recognition from established Japanese systems, while others may question the academic legitimacy of martial arts degrees. The author, however, does not claim to be the best or to know all there is about martial arts. Instead, they identify as a perpetual student, learning daily and embracing the humility inherent in the martial arts journey. This perspective aligns with the concept of Shoshin (beginner’s mind), which values openness and curiosity at every stage. By focusing on personal growth and contributions to the field, the author finds fulfillment in their work, regardless of external validation. Their commitment to honoring the memory of martial arts traditions while innovating as an American practitioner bridges cultural heritage with modern practicality.
The Lifelong Student Mindset
Central to the author’s philosophy is the belief that one is never a master but always a student. This mindset drives their daily pursuit of knowledge, whether through training, research, or teaching. The author’s passion for studying pressure points and kata bunkai reflects a scholarly approach to martial arts, seeking to deepen understanding and enhance practical application. Their identity as an American martial artist underscores a commitment to adaptability, drawing from diverse influences while maintaining respect for the art’s historical roots. This dedication to lifelong learning is evident in the author’s thousands of hours of training and sparring, which have shaped their technical and philosophical approach. By sharing their knowledge through teaching, the author contributes to the martial arts community, fostering growth in others while continuing their own journey of discovery.
Conclusion
The honorary PhD in Martial Arts Science from Shinja Martial Arts University, awarded under the guidance of Hanshi John Enger, is a testament to the author’s decades of training, independent research, and contributions to the martial arts. As an American martial artist, the author brings a unique perspective, blending traditional techniques with innovative approaches to pressure points and kata bunkai. Despite skepticism from some in the martial arts community, the author remains steadfast in their identity as a lifelong student, honoring martial arts traditions while forging their own path. The honorary PhD serves as both a recognition of past achievements and a call to continue learning, teaching, and advancing the art for future generations.
References
- Shinja Martial Arts University. (2019). Retrieved from http://www.shinja.us