UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS

at

Christ Hospital

4440 w. 95th Street

Oak Lawn, IL

World Religions (4 Semester Hours)

September 2—December 16, 2004

6:30-9:30pm

 

 

 

 

Course Description:

This course examines the major religious traditions of the world from the standpoint of human religious experience and the variety of cultural forms which influence the expression of that experience.  The various religions and religious traditions are examined thematically and structurally for comparison as well as contrast.  Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, and other major religious movements will be presented and examined.    

 

Course Objectives:

A.  To describe and discuss beliefs and the history of the major religions of the world. 

 

B.  To analyze the themes and structures of major religious traditions around the world. 

 

C.  To discuss and analyze cross-cultural religious traditions, exploring such major themes as birth, death, rebirth, creation, wisdom, values.   

 

D.  To examine the relationship, similarities, and differences among world religions today.

 

E.  To analyze the impact of the social sciences—especially psychology, sociology and anthropology—on both the understanding and practice of religion. 

 

F.  To value religious pluralism in our world.

 

G.  To demonstrate critical thinking and communication skills in the context of World Religions. 

 

H.  To prepare and analyze an approved topic, through an in-depth inquiry of the topic.  (Independent Study Component)

 

Required textbook:    

Religions of the World, 9/e, Hopfe, Lewis M., Prentice Hall, 2004. 

 

Course Content:

September 2nd            Introduction Overview thru Native American Religions

Religions of the World pages 1-49

 

September 7th             African Religions

Religions of the World pages 50-70

 

September 16th           Hinduism

Religions of the World pages 71-115

 

September 23rd           Jainism

Religions of the World pages 116-126

 

September 30th           Buddhism

Religions of the World pages 127-155

 

October 7th                 Sikhism

Religions of the World pages 156-167

 

October 14th                                       Midterm 

 

October 21st                Chinese Religions           

Religions of the World pages 168-202

 

October 28th               Shinto        

Religions of the World pages 203-219

 

November 4th             Zoroastrianism

Religions of the World pages 220-240

 

November 11th           Judaism

Religions of the World pages 241-279

 

November 18th         Christianity           

Religions of the World pages 280-332

 

November 25th                                   Thanksgiving—No Class

 

December 2nd             Islam

Religions of the World pages 333-370         

 

December 9th              Baha’i           ISC due 

Religions of the World pages 371-382

 

December 16th                                    Final Exam 

 

Grading:

Midterm Exam                       33%

ISC                                          33%

Final Exam                             33%

 

Guidelines for the Independent Study Component:

Courses offered in the Health Arts Program are designated as upper division and are also four semester hours of credit.  Consequently, the Independent Study Component becomes an integral part of the Health Arts courses that adds both breadth and depth to each course.  It distinguishes those courses taken in the Health Arts Program from ones that have similar titles but are lower division and also from those that are three semester hours of credit.

 

Each student will write a 12-page research paper that will deal with an aspect of world religions.  The topic will be approved before beginning the project.  Students are encouraged to pick a topic that either has applicability to their professional work or personal life. 

 

Expectations:

I look forward to this semester and expect that you will do your part to make this a rewarding experience for you and the rest of your class.  Together, we will have a fruitful journey to better understanding world religions. 

 

Statement of Academic Integrity:

Students have an obligation to exhibit honesty in carrying out their academic assignments.  Students may be found to have violated this obligation if they plagiarize or cheat.  Plagiarism is presenting the work of others as one’s own; cheating is taking, giving, or accepting any illicit advantage for any course work inside or outside of the classroom. 

 

ADA Statement:

All students with disabilities who need accommodations should alert your instructor within the first week of school and contact the Disabilities Coordinator, Dr. MeShelda Jackson in the Office of Disability Services.  She can be reached by email (mjackson@stfrancis.edu) or phone (815) 740-3461.

                 

USF Mission Statement:

 

As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learner challenged by Franciscan values and charisma, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom, and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion, and peacemaking.  We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership.

 

Accessibility:

I look forward to teaching this class.  If you need anything or have any problem, the following information will provide you with access to assistance.  Please feel free to contact me whenever necessary.

 

Dr. Al Campbell
8355 Doubletree Drive North

Crown Point, IN 46307

cell (219) 928-5598

(219) 942-5595

campbell@wolverton-mountain.com

www.wolverton-mountain.com

 


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