EASTERN THOUGHT

SYLLABUS

INSTRUCTOR: Professor D. Fox

PHONE: 353-7733

OFFICE: 221 Humanities

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course explores the philosophical, mythical, and religious traditions of the East, examining secular thought and religious convictions and studying their influence on each other. Buddhism, Hinduism, Shintoism, Taoism, Confucianism, and other substantive thought systems, as well as some indigenous religions will be discussed. Each traditions views of nature, society, self, deity, and afterlife will be studied. Assessment levels: EN101/101A, MA 100, RD 110. Three hours each week.

TEXT: Oriental Philosophies by John M. Koller

TENTATIVE TOPICS

I. INTRODUCTION

II. INDIA

A. History

B. Hinduism

C. Buddhism

D. Jainism

E. Sikhism

III. CHINA

A. History

B. Taoism

C. Confucianism

D. Buddhism

E. Festivals

IV. JAPAN

A. History

B. Shinto

C. Buddhism

D. Confucianism

GRADING:

Written Assignments 25%

Examinations 75%

Field Trips 15%