If you do well in this course, you will be able to:
- Identify and define relevant terminology such as asceticism, dharma, karma, samsara, moksha, nirvana, yoga, ahimsa, guru, bodhisattva, lama, Dao, wu wei, kami, khalsa, filial piety, ren/jen, etc.
- Explain the role great religious founders have filled in human history
- Summarize the origins, teachings, organization and practices of the religions studied
- Interpret some of the sacred writings and mythic imagery of Indian and East Asian religions
- Compare and contrast recurring themes in the religions studied such as: mysticism, loving devotion, reincarnation, ultimate liberation
- Discuss the historical connections among the religions studied
- Analyze the complex relations between religion and society/culture in various historical and contemporary contexts
- Respectfully experience and discuss previously unfamiliar religious events/communities