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
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in RELI 2012H
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
Syllabus