Show More


REL 370

Advanced Topics in Religion

Usually a category of religious phenomena, such as religious experience, mysticism, the nature of deities; or the role and status of persons; healing in religious traditions; sectarian groups; major thinkers or movements; or themes and approaches in the study of religion. May be repeated for credit with different topics.

Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
1 course

Current Semester Information

Geoffrey Goble

370A: Adv Tps:Zen Buddhism

Advanced Topics: Zen Buddhism

This course covers the historical development of Zen Buddhism, a unique East Asian variety of Buddhism that has established itself in modern American culture. We will specifically study the creation and establishment of Zen Buddhism in China, where it is known as "Chan," its spread and development in Japan, and its introduction and representation in the United States of America. Throughout the semester we will consider both the manner in which the Zen tradition has persistently defined and redefined itself by constructing and reconstructing its past and also how the Zen tradition has been understood by contemporary scholars, popularizers, and American adherents.


Leslie James

370B: Adv Tps:Marley,CaribCult