The course will be concerned mainly with a history of ideas in Asian Buddhism, and its aim is to give students a conceptual grasp of important Buddhist ideas, myths and symbols. In addition to these theoretical concerns, we will examine the connection between theory and practice and the cross-cultural ramifications of Buddhist thought.

At the end of the course students should have a solid background in the history and basic doctrines of Buddhism and its current place in the world. In addition, they will be familiar with some of the conceptual tensions faced by Buddhists seeking to adapt their tradition to current issues such as abortion, euthanasia, climate change, and maintaining the environment.

Two exams or Essays of 3,000 words (totaling 40%), Tutorial work (30%) and Research Essay of 4,000 words (30%)

Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but may expect more rigorous assessment, additional or more lengthy assignments, tailored to the graduate student’s interests.

33 contact hours per semester plus up to 7 non-contact hours per week (tutorial preparation and assignment writing).

Permission of course convener

Kasulis, T., Zen Action - Zen Person, State University of New York Press, 1981
Powers, J. Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism, Snow Lion, 1995.