The religious quest: Eastern faith and illumination
Ian Mabbett
8 points * 2 lectures and 1 tutorial per week * Second semester * Clayton * Prohibitions: HSY2470/3470 1992 or previously
The subject is designed to introduce students to the study of religion, looking at the main religious traditions of Asia in turn, tracing their evolution, and relating each to the cultural environment in which it grew. Certain basic questions are taken as themes to apply to each section of the subject; for example, what have the different religions said about the fundamental questions such as the problem of suffering, the existence of an afterlife and the existence of God or gods? The concern in this semester will be with the nature of religion in general and with eastern religions, with special attention to Taoist mysticism, the Hindu way of life, yoga and salvation, and the Buddhist teaching.
Assessment
Written (4000 words): 50% * Examination (2 hours): 50%
Prescribed texts
Carmody D L and Carmody J T Stories of Eastern religions Mayfield
Hinnells J R (ed.) A handbook of living religions Penguin
Ling T O A history of religion East and West Harper and Row
Recommended text
Eastman R (ed.) The ways of religion, OUP