COMPARATIVE WORLD RELIGIONS 12

           “Knowledge about religions is not only a characteristic of an educated

              person, but is also absolutely necessary for understanding and living

              in a world of diversity. Knowledge of religious differences and the role

              of religion in the contemporary world can help promote understanding

             and alleviate prejudice.”

                                               National Council for Social Studies 1984

  Comparative World Religions 12 offers a comprehensive and objective study of world religions which include Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as many others. Each will be studied from common perspectives: origin, historical development, rites and rituals, sacred texts, beliefs, values, and festivals and holy days.

  In addition to the basic exploration of various religions, the religious dimension of human experience will be discussed in a broader context:

  i)  the influence religion has played in the moral, social, political, and   economic development of civilizations

  ii)  the influence of religion on the arts, language, literature, and architecture

  iii)  the influence of religion on moral and ethical issues pertaining to war, environment, and other current issues pertaining to life and death

Through the study of religions and cultures other than their own, students will be given an opportunity to broaden their view of the world and thus break through the barriers of misunderstanding, prejudice, and discrimination.

                   No specific text is used in this course.  Resources are provided.