ASIA2251 Buddhism
Later Year Course
| Offered By | Faculty of Asian Studies |
|---|---|
| Academic Career | Undergraduate |
| Course Subject | Asian Studies |
| Offered in | First Semester, 2009 |
| Unit Value | 6 units |
| Course Description |
This course is concerned with the world views of selected Buddhist traditions - their context, history, philosophy, manifestations and impact on Asian cultures. We will examine the Indian background of Buddhism, how it was translated into Tibet, China and Japan, and how major philosophical and religious movements in India were adapted to East Asian ideas and symbols. The course will be concerned mainly with a history of ideas in Asian Buddhism, and its aim is to give students a conceptual grasp of important Buddhist ideas, myths and symbols. In addition to these theoretical concerns, we will examine the connection between theory and practice and the cross-cultural ramifications of Buddhist thought. |
| Learning Outcomes | At the end of the course students should have a solid background in the history and basic doctrines of Buddhism and its current place in the world. In addition, they will be familiar with some of the conceptual tensions faced by Buddhists seeking to adapt their tradition to current issues such as abortion, euthanasia, climate change, and maintaining the environment. |
| Indicative Assessment |
Two exams or Essays of 3,000 words (totaling 70%), Tutorial work (30%). |
| Workload |
33 contact hours for the semester. |
| Areas of Interest | Non Language Asian Studies |
| Requisite Statement |
6 university courses (36 units). |
| Incompatibility |
with AREL2251 |
| Preliminary Reading |
Kasulis, T., Zen Action - Zen Person, State University New York Press, 1981; Powers, J., Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism, Snow Lion, 1995 |
| Majors/Specialisations | Religious Studies, Cognitive Major (Asian History), and Cognitive Major (Asian Religions) |
| Other Information |
Delivery Mode: On Campus |
| Academic Contact | Dr John Powers |
The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.
