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Asian Religions in America (Honors)


Course Description

Examination of the diverse religious affiliations and identities of Asian Americans in North America. An interdisciplinary analysis of religious traditions, migration/diaspora experience, and contemporary issues, while grounding this knowledge in the Asian American cultures and socio-historical contexts that have influenced both continuity and change.


Athena Title

Asian Religions in America Hon


Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in RELI 2012


Prerequisite

Permission of Honors


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

• To improve students’ skills and level of cultural competence • To learn about Asian American cultures and religions and develop religious literacy • To encourage active dialogues in which students can ask questions and correct misconceptions and misunderstandings • To learn to identify and deconstruct stereotypes through the academic study of religion • In a congenial and respectful learning environment, the course seeks to engage students in a meaningful guided discussion that fosters belonging and cultural awareness


Topical Outline

1. The Academic Study of Religion 2. Who are Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI)? 3. Colonialism/Post-colonialism "Orientalism" 4. Survey of Asian-American Immigration Pre/post-1965 5. Religion and Culture: South Asian Traditions Hinduism Buddhism Jainism Sikhism 6. Religion and Culture: East Asian Traditions Confucianism Daoism Chinese Buddhism Japanese Buddhism Shinto Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Traditions 7. Challenges Facing Asian-American Immigrant Communities Issues of Heritage Preservation and Conversion Appropriation Commodification Debates 8. Asian Philosophy and Religion meets American Hippie Culture/1960-70s Meditation Traditions Yoga Traditions Eastern Spirituality, American Syncretism, and Pop Cultures 9. Current Events: AAPI in America