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  3. Asian Religions in Societal Context

Asian Religions in Societal Context (ASIA30003)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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The subject explores the wide variety of Asian religious traditions, from examples of indigenous and folk traditions to analyses of the major world religions originating from Asia. Attention is given to Asian religion’s cosmologies and philosophy of life, their role as a normative foundation of culture and society, and their relevance to politics. Asian religion’s growing popularity in the West will be considered together with the growing influence of Islam and Christianity in Asia, charting historical processes of interaction between civilisations and the contemporary rise of global religions and identities.

Intended learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students will be able to



  • Identify and distinguish the characteristics of a range of indigenous religions and folk traditions across Asia;
  • Compare the philosophy and cosmology of major world religions originating from Asia;
  • Define the influence of Islam and Christianity in Asia, and the influence of Asian religions in the West
  • Outline core values of Asian societies that are shaped by religious ideas;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how social science theory is used to characterise the role of religion in society;
  • Identify the different trends in religion and spirituality and demonstrate how these are interlinked with a contemporary framework of modernisation and globalisation.

Generic skills

  • Develop problem-solving skills including engaging with unfamiliar problems, and identifying relevant strategies;
  • Develop analytical skills - the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of the analysis;
  • Develop written and oral presentation skills and learning how to present material in a well- organised, well-structured, lucid and persuasive fashion;
  • Learn to manage your time, balance competing commitments and set and meet regular deadlines.

Last updated: 19 September 2024