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South Suburban College UCC
World Religions (4 Semester Hours)
January 5—April 19, 2004
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:
January 5th Introduction thru African Religions
Religions of the World pages 1-70
January 12th Hinduism
Religions of the World pages 71-115
January 19th Martin Luther King Holiday
January 26th Jainism
Religions of the World pages 116-126
February 2nd Buddhism
Religions of the World pages 127-155
February 9th Sikhism
Religions of the World pages 156-167
February 16th Midterm
February 23rd Chinese Religions
Religions of the World pages 168-202
March 1st Shinto
Religions of the World pages 203-219
March 8th Zoroastrianism
Religions of the World pages 220-240
March 15th Judaism
Religions of the World pages 241-279
March 22nd Christianity
Religions of the World pages 280-332
March 29th Islam
Religions of the World pages 333-370
April 5th Baha’i ISC due
Religions of the World pages 371-382
April 12th Final Exam
Grading:
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.
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