Buddhism and Interreligious Understanding

The subject focuses on a theory of religion, spirituality, and interfaith dialogue. It outlines the foundations of religious studies, then proceeds with an examination of fundamental issues in the co-development of the major world religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism from a comparative and interfaith perspective. In the theoretical component the major methodological approaches will be presented and examined, and in the practical part readings of key texts related to the subject outline, will be discussed in the context of modern societal problems such as economic, political and gender issues, and approaches to conflict resolution and peace. Additionally, the subject aims to investigate the role and future of religion and interfaith dialogue in our globalized world. Students will also explore how Buddhist perspectives could inform and contribute to contemporary interfaith dialogue.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical preconditions for interfaith dialogue within a comparative religious and theoretical framework.
   
2. Critically analyse key tenets in interreligious and interfaith milieux – such as monotheism, pluralism, interfaith dialogue, intercultural theology.
3. Creatively participate in group work, developing critical and constructive competencies to identify, analyse and present key selected tenets of this subject.
4. Develop an ability to recognise and evaluate the methods of contemporary interfaith dialogue and intercultural theology as well as their key topics (religion and ethics, violence vs. peace). 

Assessments

• Assessment 1: Literature review (20%)
• Assessment 2: Group work report (30%)
• Assessment 3: Essay (50%)