RELS 3355 Buddhism

This course takes a philosophical effect approach to Buddhist wisdom although both ethical conduct in the form of Service Learning and Meditative practice are part of the course design. Primary focus will be on those foundational ideas and practices that are common to all the various Buddhist traditions: The Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, Dharma, Abhidharma, Nirvana, etc. The course will also investigate the major variants of global Buddhism-Therevada, Mahayana, Vajrayana. Some particular focus will be paid to those sub-schools, such as Zen and Pure Land, which have reason to global significance. Some investigation of American Buddhism might also figure in this course. Major figures include Siddhartha Gautama, Nagarjuna, Dogen, and Suzuki. Major primary texts consulted should include the Dhammapada, Versus on the Middle Way, the Shobogenzo, and Words of My Perfect Teacher. Philosophical topic include (in addition to those already detailed) the notions of No-Self, Dependant Arising and Sunyata ('emptiness").

Credits

3

Cross Listed Courses

PHIL 3355

Schedule Type

Lecture

Grading Basis

Standard Letter (A-F)

Administrative Unit

Dept of Philosophy

Offered

As scheduled