50187 Comparative Belief Systems

This subject inquires into why cultures, historical periods and individuals have different understandings of reality and the nature of truth. The focus is on the cross-cultural and historical aspects of this question. The subject takes as its case study the world's dominant framing cognitive systems: the dominant religious traditions, and the outlooks of science and secular humanism. It treats these traditions as complex, self-modifying conceptual systems, existing in continuous interaction with other systems, including morality, politics, gender relations, aesthetic expression, group attributes and human psychology. The subject introduces the basic tenets and history of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Rationalism, together with relevant elements of other cognitive traditions. Students improve their knowledge and understanding of the nature of religion and science, and explanations of their existence and variability. They consider doubt, conflict and persecution, as well as continuity, certainty and conversion, and reflect upon the contemporary post-modern situation, with its increasingly fluid mingling of innovation and fund.

Typical availability

Spring semester, City campus