LIB542
The Philosophy of Non-Dualism and Ultimate Freedom
At the heart of Indian philosophy and religion is the idea of total and unconditional freedom (Nirvana in Buddhism and Moksha in Hinduism). It signifies a state of release from the life of pain and suffering, here and now. Central to this understanding is the awareness of non-dualism—the recognition of an underlying unity behind multiplicity. This is also called “cosmic consciousness” or a sacred state of “immortality” that transcends life and death, and the dichotomy of self and others. We will explore the philosophy of non-dualism in its most profound essence. We will also consider if a non-dualistic approach can help alleviate not only individual suffering but also many current social and global challenges.
This course is offered online.
A $50 discount is available during check-out for adults 55+.
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced with weekly virtual class
Duration: 6 weeks
Tuition: $180 plus GST
Can be applied to:
Liberal Arts for 55+ Certificate
Upcoming Offerings
- Fri, Feb 27, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
- Fri, Mar 6, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
- Fri, Mar 13, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
- Fri, Mar 20, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
- Fri, Mar 27, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
- Fri, Apr 10, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time (virtual class)
Course outline
- Week 1
Philosophy of non-dualism. Early beginnings. Overview of ancient Indian thought. Existential search for truth, meaning and the sacred. Philosophy of holism. - Week 2
Non-dualism in the ancient texts of Upanishads. Philosophy of Moksha and Advaita. Soteriological quest for immortality and ultimate freedom. - Week 3
Non-dualism in Buddhism. Philosophy of Dukkha (suffering) and the ending of suffering (Nirvana). - Week 4
Non-dualism in non-Indian schools: Taoism (Chinese), Zen (Japanese), Judeo-Christian and Greek. - Week 5
Self-reflection of non-dualistic thought. Understanding the origins of suffering within oneself (existential angst and void) and the possibility of immediate ending of suffering through a non-dualistic approach. Exploration of the source of social and global challenges from a non-dualistic lens. - Week 6
Death, immortality and creation. Origin of the universe and timeless reality. Cosmic consciousness.
What you will learn
By the end of the course, you should be able to:
- Appreciate classical Indian thought
- Understand the philosophy of non-dualism (Indian and other cultures)
- Acknowledge how dualism is considered the root of all problems and suffering, and non-dualism is a cure
- Recognize the doctrine of liberation from suffering, ultimate freedom, immortality and timeless universal consciousness
How you will learn
- Participation in Zoom-based lectures
- Participation in class discussion
- Supplementary resources accessed through Canvas
- Reflective essay (applicable only to certificate students)
Learning Materials
No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.
Technical Requirements
For online courses, you will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course. For more information and online support, visit Online Learning.