RL ST 408
(US;IL)
Hindu Studies (3) Special topics in Hindu studies.
RL ST 408 Hindu Studies (3)
(US;IL)
(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements.
Religious Studies 408 (Hindu Studies) provides a critical examination of selected philosophical and devotional systems within the diversity of Hindu religious traditions within the context of south Asian history. This course explores the nature of Hindu Darshana or outlook through textual analysis of some of its primary scriptures (in translation), as well as (in English) works by more recent Hindu thinkers and philosophers. Students will trace the emergence of ethical, moral, and social ideals of Hinduism through a detailed study of its belief systems as they had evolved through the ages. For example, a typical research project may involve writing a series of two papers, one focusing on the religious roots of non-violence in heterodox ideals of Jainism of fifth century B.C.E, and a second one, exploring the modern relevance of non-violence in political discourse as represented in the writings of Mohandas Gandhi. Students will be evaluated on a mid-term and a final exam, two research papers and debates. RL ST 408 serves as one of the courses fulfilling the 6 credits requirement of the 400-level course for a Religious Studies major. It also fulfills the United States Cultures and International Cultures designation.
Note : Class size, frequency of offering, and evaluation methods will vary by location and instructor. For these details check the specific course syllabus.