A workshop that cultivates advanced writing skills in religious studies.

(Cross-listed as AR421.)†

Reflections on the historical Buddha, his teaching and his times; an examination of the spread of Buddhism and its subsequent changes; a study of Buddhism in contemporary Asia.†

An introduction to 20th century Christian traditions, developments in their thought, practices and institutions. Special attention will be directed to the relationships between Christian and other religious groups.

An introduction to Gnosticism, a second century religious movement that intersected and overlapped with Christianity and Judaism. Emphasis will be on readings of primary sources.

An exploration of methods, theories and research tools employed in the academic study of religion. The focus is on the individuals responsible for shaping the discipline from the late 19th century to the present.

Exploration of a method or methods for studying non-textual dimensions of religion. The emphasis of the course is on the use of social scientific methods for the purposes of studying religious institutions and movements, rites, cosmologies, ethical values and life histories.

This course enables a student to develop in depth an area of interest or a research project not covered by the regular course program. The course may be offered individually or to a small group of students and stresses independent study and the development of sound methodology.