Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2018 - HUM 130 D900

Introduction to Religious Studies (3)

Class Number: 7142

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2018: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 15, 2018
    Sat, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Surrey

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to concepts central to the academic study of religion exploring various relevant methodologies. Provides a framework for understanding the many ways in which humans experience the phenomenon of the sacred through symbol, ritual, doctrine and experience in a variety of religious traditions and cultures. Students who have taken HUM 230 prior to 2007 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities Equivalent Courses: GS230 HUM230 Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

The word “religion” as used today refers to a complex and sometimes incoherent array of ideas.  On one page of a recent Vancouver newspaper were references to the American Religious Right, the Dalai Lama, and the Canadian Council of Imams.   What are we to make of the religious or spiritual element of human life and what language is useful to discuss it?  Along with exploring modern theories of religious studies and some of the methods which scholars utilize to understand various aspects of religious behaviour, students will consider their own search for meaning and how that meaning is expressed. The aim of this course is to approach the various human phenomena that we call "religious” using the tools of critical thinking and to develop sensitivity to subtle and sometimes almost indefinable levels of human meaning.  We will examine basic concepts and categories in the academic study of religion (e.g. myth, ritual, religious experience, community) and see how they are expressed in several major religious traditions of the world.  In addition we will consider how these traditions give expression to religious experience and how they address such issues as the problem of suffering and evil, the role of faith, existence of free will and the ultimate goal of human life.

Our readings include both primary religious texts (in translation) and secondary studies. These will be supplemented by films and group visits to various religious centres.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:


Grading

  • Midterm 20%
  • Major Essay 30%
  • Participation and Exercises 10%
  • Reflection Report 15%
  • Final 25%

NOTES:


REQUIREMENTS:


Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:


REQUIRED READING:

Barbara Stoler Miller, trans. The Bhagavad-Gita :Krishna's Counsel in Time of War

Thich Nhat Hanh, The Other Shore: A New Translation of the Heart Sutra with Commentaries (2017)

Roy R. Robon, Think: World Religions

Wiesel, Elie. Night. Translated by Stella Rodway

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS