This course is an introduction to the academic study of religion and to the historical traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. The traditions of Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Primal or "oral" religions are examined in a separate course, World Religions: Western Traditions. This course examines the historical evolution, the fundamental doctrines and beliefs, the practices, institutions, and cultural expressions of these religious traditions. The course also deals with some of the essential differences and similarities which exist among each religious tradition, and points to the uniqueness of each of them.
Goals for students enrolled in this course are 1) to develop the ability to think both empathetically and critically about conflicting religious claims, and 2) to gain knowledge of the history and culture of several major religious traditions. This course will consist of lectures, video presentations, and classroom discussions. Guest speakers and visits to local religious sites are also a possibility.
Lecture outlines will be available from the instructor. Please bring these outlines to each class meeting.
September 21: Introduction to the Religions of India. Hinduism
September 28: Hinduism Continued
October 5: Other Religious Traditions in India (Jainism and Sikhism). The Beginnings of Buddhism
October 12: Buddhism Continued
October 19: Buddhism in Tibet and North America
October 26: Introduction to the Religions of China. Confucianism
November 2: Taoism
November 9: Taoism Continued. The Interaction of Religions
November 16: The Academic Study of Religion