In an effort to clarify the relevance of Eastern philosophy in the modern age, The Institute of Oriental Philosophy conducts and publishes research and studies in thematic areas that include: the universality of thought in the Lotus Sutra, comparative studies of Western and Eastern philosophies, the life sciences and religion, human rights and religion, women and religion, environmental issues and religion, and the role of religion in social ethics.

IOP's ongoing projects include critical scholarship on:

• 1. Nichiren Buddhism
• 2. The Lotus Sutra
• 3. Religion and Humanism
• 4. Religion and the Issues of Bioethics
• 5. Religion and Environmental Issues
• 6. Religious Movements in International Society
• 7. Religion and Women's Issues
• 8. Development of Soka Gakkai's Philosophy of Value Creation