York Country Day School

COMPARATIVE WORLD RELIGIONS

Mr. Gyenes

 

Course Description: The purpose of this course is to assist you in developing an informed appreciation of the religious life of humankind as reflected in a number of the most influential traditions of the world.

 

Course Objectives:  During this course, you will learn to define religion and to understand, compare and contrast the essential characteristics, concepts and practices of the major religions of the world.

 

Graded Assignments:

  1. Essays = 20%
  2. Class participation = 10%
  3. In-class assignments/projects =20%
  4. Final Project = 20%
  5. Journal = 10%
  6. Homework = 20%

 

Final Project:  Comparative Religion Independent Research Project

 

Text:  Smith, Huston.  The World’s Religions

 

Course Etiquette:  We will be dealing with sensitive issues and the student is expected to show proper appreciation and understanding for the opinions and viewpoints of his/her classmates.  Simply, demonstrate the core virtues of YCDS.

 

Academic Honesty:  Academic dishonesty refers to actions such as cheating, plagiarism, sharing homework, etc. and includes all situations where a student makes use of the work of others and claims such work as their own.  Academic dishonesty WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.

 

If you ever become overwhelmed by the amount of work, do not fully understand the material, or have problems and/or concern please talk with me.

 

Tentative Course Schedule:

 

       I.      Introduction:  What is Religion and Why Study It?

    II.      Hinduism

 III.      Buddhism

  IV.      Judaism

     V.      Christianity

  VI.      Islam