Oliver Leaman is a philosophy professor who has written several books discussing philosophies primarily associated with religions. As editor of the book Friendship East and West: Philosophical Perspectives, Leaman presents a series of essays looking at friendship as expounded in various philosophies from around the world.

University of Kentucky Philosophy Professor Oliver Leaman spoke to a number of Istanbul audiences on various topics, including: the difference in status of religion in secular states compared with states with official religions; academic arguments about the aesthetic value and quality of the Arabic grammar in the Koran; and Islamic Art and culture. Leaman presented a talk on the Koran to staff members and a public talk on Islamic Art and Culture.