Introduction to Buddhism (210-0-20)

Instructors

Rekjong Tashi

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall G21: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This course provides an introduction to key aspects of the Buddha's life stories, his teachings, and Buddhist traditions in Asia and beyond. Through a careful examination of Buddhist history and the literature produced within these traditions, we will explore key teachings and concepts, including the Four Noble Truths, the Two Truths, impermanence, suffering, no-self, the Middle Way, karma, merit, rebirth, nirvana, and enlightenment. Drawing on these concepts, we will seek to understand the moral values, philosophical insights, ritual practices, and social concerns that have shaped Buddhism over centuries of dynamic change across diverse cultural contexts. More specifically, we examine the historical development of Buddhist teachings along three major traditions, Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, as well as contemporary Buddhist practices. In the contemporary context, particular attention will be given to the global significance of mindfulness and ongoing dialogues between Buddhism and science, ecology, and visual culture.

Teaching Method

Class Materials (Required)

1. Donald W. Mitchell and Sarah H. Jacoby, Buddhism: Introducing the Buddhist Experience (Oxford University Press, 4rd edition) ISBN: 978-0197750292
2. Dhammapada (Penguin Classics) ISBN: 978-0-140-44941-9
3. Thich Nhat Hanh, The Other Shore (Parallax Press) ISBN: 978-1941529140
4. Andrew Quintman, The Life of Milarepa (Penguin Classics) ISBN: 978-0-14-310622-7

Class Attributes

Ethical and Evaluative Thinking Foundational Disci
SoC Individual and Social Behavior Distro

Associated Classes

DIS - Harris Hall L05: Thurs 9:00AM - 9:50AM

DIS - Harris Hall L05: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-331: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-331: Thurs 11:00AM - 11:50AM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-319: Thurs 11:00AM - 11:50AM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-331: Thurs 12:00PM - 12:50PM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 4-410: Thurs 12:00PM - 12:50PM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 4-410: Thurs 1:00PM - 1:50PM