Credits: 1 Max Enrollment: 999
Course Type: Lecture Section Enrollment: 24
Grade Mode: Credit/Non Credit Waitlist Count: 0
Reserved Seats: No
Curriculum Distribution: Historical Studies
Time/Location: Tuesday | 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM / Seelye 201 Instructional Method: In-Person

This course introduces students to the academic study of Buddhism through readings, lectures by Smith faculty and guests, and trips to local Buddhist centers. We critically examine the history of Buddhist studies within the context of numerous disciplines, including anthropology, art, cultural studies, gender studies, government, literature, philosophy and religion, with a focus on regional, sectarian and historical differences. Materials to be considered include poetry, painting, philosophy, political tracts and more. This course meets during the first half of the semester only. S/U only.


First half of semester course.

Crosslist(s): REL
2 cross listed courses found for the selected term.
Credits: 4 Max Enrollment: 999
Course Type: Lecture Section Enrollment: 38
Grade Mode: Graded Waitlist Count: 0
Reserved Seats: No
Curriculum Distribution: Historical Studies
Time/Location: Tuesday/Thursday | 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM / McConnell 404 Instructional Method: In-Person

An introduction to the six classical schools of Indian philosophy. What are their views on the nature of self, mind and reality? What is knowledge and how is it acquired? What constitutes right action? We will read selections from the Upanishads, the Bhagavad-Gita, the Nyaya and Yoga Sutras, and the Samkhya-Karika, amongst others. At the end of the semester we will briefly consider the relation of these ancient traditions to the views of some influential modern Indian thinkers like Aurobindo, Vivekananda and Krishnamurti. Comparisons with positions in the western philosophical tradition will be an integral part of the course.

Crosslist(s): BUS,SAS
Credits: 4 Max Enrollment: 18
Course Type: Lecture Section Enrollment: 12
Grade Mode: Graded Waitlist Count: 0
Reserved Seats: No
Curriculum Distribution: Literature, Social Science
Time/Location: Tuesday/Thursday | 1:20 PM - 2:35 PM / Seelye 107 Instructional Method: In-Person

This course explores various Buddhist approaches to social justice, and engages a multicultural dialogue on specific social justice issues. We will discuss basic Buddhist metaphysics and ethics, looking at primary texts such as the Dhammapada and The Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life. We will then investigate the concept of justice, and dive in to Buddhist approaches to moral anger, non- violence, gender, and other applied topics. Enrollment limited to 18. (E)

Crosslist(s): BUS