School of Letters Department of Humanities

(Credit 2)

Intended Year: N/A
Intended School: International Humanities
International Humanities VII: Introduction to Japanese Religions and Philosophy I
International Humanities VII: Introduction to Japanese Religions and Philosophy I
Sub Title@ Introduction to Buddhism
Asssociate Professor Caleb CARTER
 Numbering Code:
Course Code:
2026 SpringTerm
weekly Mon4
Ito Classroom
E‰Č–Ú (English, English)
Course Overview Buddhism includes communities, practices, philosophies, and technologies spanning roughly twenty-five hundred years and covering diverse regions across Asia and more recently, the rest of the world. Buddhists themselves often describe their practice as a gpath.h In a similar way, we will take a journey through many of the practices, communities, and movements that developed over the course of its history. This will include writings authored by Buddhists, themselves, films about different aspects of Buddhism, lectures, discussions, and class activities.
The course is divided thematically into three sections: the Buddha and his followers, Buddhist philosophies, and Buddhist practices. It is also designed to prepare students for the Fall course, gJapanese Religions.h


GOALS FOR THIS COURSE
1) Learn important Buddhist terms, concepts, and practices.

2) Consider both continuities among traditions as well as changes and issues of historical and regional context.

3) Develop analytical skills that allow you to critically read primary sources within Buddhist traditions.

4) Engage in open conversation, especially in an English-language setting. In addition, you will gain practice in asking questions, making comments, and writing about the ideas, practices, and vested interests in the sources we study.

5) Step into the unfamiliar by encountering beliefs, practices and ways of understanding the world outside of your own.

COURSE STRUCTURE
Readings: There will be short readings for some weeks. Please read carefully before class and write down questions you would like to ask.

Videos: Videos relevant to our weekly themes are linked on this syllabus. Please watch before class.

Short writing assignments: Some are due before class on Moodle. Please check the schedule beforehand.

Class time: This will be in person and be activity-based, including discussions, and Kahoot! quizzes.

Mini-lectures: There are short online lectures available for most classes. They are optional. The same material will be covered in class, but if you want to preview or review the material, these videos will allow you to watch, pause, and re-watch at your own pace.

Temple visit: Students will visit a temple on their own and give a short presentation based on their visit.
Last updated : 2026/3/4 (15:30) kN/Al