Religion 48

Japanese Religions

# of Students	30-40
Location	Gray Building
Modes of Inquiry	CCI,EI
Areas of Knowledge	CZ
Prerequisites	None
Semesters Offered	Varies, last in Spring 2006
Sections per Week	Two lectures

Religion 48: Japanese Religions, most recently taught by Dr. Richard Jaffe in Spring 2006, is a survey into the history, development, and plurality of religious life in Japan. The course spans from the first introduction of religious behavior in Japan, to the newest religions in the modern world. A large portion of the course focuses on Buddhism; its influx from China, Korea, and India, the development of various sects and practices, and its impact on the history and mindset of the country. Also discussed are the practices of Kami Worship, Shinto, Daoism, Confuscionism, Christianity and the new religions. The course requires a significant amount of reading, typically 150-200 pages per week, from textbook and primary sources. Particularly appealing is the chance to read the actual religious texts and see actual practices through slideshows and videos. The course provides a thorough understanding of the development and nature of Japanese religion.