Each assigment is Due every Thursday!

Week 1)

Respond to the following with a minimum of 325 words

This week we will start by exploring what religion is, how it relates to ethics, and which contemporary challenges relate to religion. Considering these topics will be important in the coming weeks as we delve into the specifics of various religions traditions and whether God exists

·       Does God exist? Yea or Nay. Based on the evidence of the universe and mankind, can one logically and analytically know if God exists? This is the ultimate premise that governs whether competing views are meaningful.

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·       What are some examples of contemporary challenges and issues related to religion

Week 2)

Respond to the following with a minimum of 325 words

This week, you are introduced to religions that are part of the Indian culture, including Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism.

Select one of these religions to which you do not subscribe, then imagine yourself as someone who has made this faith their devotional practice. 

·       Describe one day in this life, using these questions as a guide:

·       What are your daily rituals, common holidays, and core beliefs?

·       What ideas hold religious significance?

·       What symbols, people, or movements within your faith are important?

Be as creative as you would like when imagining another perspective; however, please be sure to include details about rituals and core beliefs that connect to the readings or course materials. Keep in mind, this discussion task is to consider differing world religions, so if your personal faith is on this list, please challenge yourself by selecting a different one. Remember that respect is key here while discussing religious beliefs. 

Week 3)

Buddhism is the focus of your study this week. As you craft your response to the following discussion questions, reflect on the course material on this subject, as well as your own life and experience. Consider modern society and how individuals interact with one another and their environments. 

Respond to the following in a minimum of 325 words: 

·       How might a person who adopts Buddhist philosophy interact with or consider the demands of modern life (e.g., peoples’ dependence on technology, less face-to-face communication, or desires for more money)?

·       What basic beliefs of Buddhism would support those interactions or perspectives? How do Buddhist history, teachings, or the life of the Buddha inform reactions to experiences of modern life ?

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Week 4)

This week explores some of the religions of China. Given that China is the most populous country on the planet, exploring its religious traditions is an opportunity to expose ourselves to different perspectives and beliefs shared by millions of people.  

Respond to the following in a minimum of 325 words:

·       How have Chinese religion and cultural philosophy changed throughout history? Address just one component of Chinese religion or philosophy in your answer.

·       What aspects of Daoist and Confucian belief systems are similar?

·       From a Daoist or Confucian perspective, what is an ideal society? Be sure to support your answer by including historical details and the basic teachings of Daoism and Confucianism in your response.

Week 5)

This final week of the class is a journey into the religions of Japan, with a focus on Shinto. Take a moment to review the course materials about Shinto to prepare for your response to this scenario.

Imagine you are a parent who is a Shinto practitioner, and you are writing a letter to your adult child who is moving away from home for the first time. Your letter should include advice on what to think about as they move on from the family home.

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Respond to the following in a minimum of 325 words: 

·       How will concepts of your Shinto faith fit into their life away from home and as a responsible adult?

·       Why is important for your child to remember Shinto’s creation myth and the basic tenant of Shinto in their own life?

·       Remind your child about relevant historical events related to Shinto’s origin and development in Japan. What common practices of Shinto today would you highlight as they begin this new chapter?

·       Why is it essential for your child to continue in the Shinto faith as they leave the family home?