Download THST 385 01 Buddhism (Chapple)

Buddhism THST 385.1
Fall 2014, M W F 10:00-10:50
Christopher Key Chapple, Doshi Professor of Indic & Comparative Theology
3763 University Hall; [email protected]; 310-338-2846
Buddhism originated in India more than 2300 years ago. From India it spread throughout Asia
and in the 20th Century became a well-known practice throughout the world. In this course we
will study the life of the Buddha and the foundational teachings that he conveyed, especially the
four noble truths (duhkha, trsna, nirodha, marga) and his no-self assessment of the human
condition. In addition to these early teachings that characterize the Theravada School, we will
also look at Mahayana Buddhism, which flourished in China, Korea, and Japan, and Vajrayana
Buddhism, found primarily in Tibet. We will take field trips to Buddhist centers in Los Angeles,
read and discuss primary texts, and see videos on the Buddhist faith.
Students will be expected to take two examinations and complete one paper of approximately ten
to twelve pages. The paper may be on a topic of the student's choosing and must include a
narrative of a visit to Buddhist center (in class or out of class). For instance, one might choose to
research and write about the role of Buddhism in war, perhaps including citation of the work of
Thich Nhat Hanh during the time of the Vietnam conflict, and reflections on how your direct
experience of Buddhism through meditation and/or field trips affirmed or brought into question
your assumptions regarding Buddhism and war and peace. Or you may have a family member
with a sustained practice that you might want to research. Or you might have an interest in a
particular form of Buddhism or a particular Buddhism philosopher. Each paper will include
footnotes/endnotes and a bibliography of at least seven items, only three of which may be
websites. Consult with the university research librarians as you develop your bibliography.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be familiar with the history and primary teachings of
Buddhism as found in the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana schools. They will be familiar
with the geographic spread of Buddhism and be aware of the ongoing presence of Buddhism in
Los Angeles.
Required Readings:
Buddhism, Donald Mitchell
Three Pillars of Zen, Philip Kapleau
Wide Awake: A Buddhist Guide for Teens, Diana Winston
and additional materials