University of Hull
Introducing Buddhism Course
Tutor - Mike Horne
Information for students
About 2600 years ago the Buddha discovered the origin of unhappiness and a way to avoid it. In this course we will look at His enlightenment, the path He took to achieve it, His teachings, some developments in the religion and some of the forms of Buddhism that have arrived in the West. We will consider if the Buddha's teachings are still relevant today and whether they can be incorporated in our busy daily lives. We will try different sorts of meditation and examine whether they can help us become more relaxed and focused.
No previous knowledge or experience is required.
The course is intended for :
People interested in religion, mysticism, meditation, and the history of the "east".
People who wish to compare religions and philosphies.
Content :
The Life and times of the historical Buddha.
The Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.
Important Buddhist Concepts - Dukkha (suffering or un-satisfactory-ness), Karma, Anicca (Impermanence), Rebirth (or re-becoming), Anatta (No-Self or No-Soul), Nirvana, five Skandhas, etc.
The development of Mahayana Buddhism - including the key concepts of the Bodhisattva and Sunyata (or Emptiness).
Meditation - its purpose and different types. The class will have the opportunity to try some of the types of meditation for themselves. We will also study its affects on the body and mind and its usefulness for relaxation and combating stress in modern life.
The main schools of Buddhism that have spread to the west.
Festivals, ceremonies and rites of passage.
Other relevant items of interest to the students will be covered if time permits.
Teaching method: each two hour evening session will normally consist of an informal talk illustrated by OHP slides, a discussion and a short 'meditation experiment'.
Assessment: students will be asked to answer questions on a quiz sheet and submit a short written report (or a verbal presentation if they prefer). Students may discuss alternative methods of assessment with the tutor.
Please note - It is not the aim of the tutor to "convert" the students into Buddhists. Personal counseling is not available.Copyright - the author gives permission for you to copy and print the course notes - but not to edit them. This permission does not extend to external links.
Click here for some of the course notes.
