East Asian Religions & Ecology

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/east-asian-religions-ecology

Introduction

**Course Review: East Asian Religions & Ecology on Coursera** In today’s world, where ecological issues are becoming increasingly pressing, understanding the interplay between human beliefs and the natural environment is more crucial than ever. The Coursera course "East Asian Religions & Ecology" is an enlightening exploration of how the rich traditions of East Asian religions interact with ecological concepts, thereby offering valuable insights into both the challenges we face and the wisdom those traditions can provide. **Overview and Objectives** At first glance, one might assume that religion and ecology exist in two separate realms, but this course boldly argues contrary. It highlights the deep interconnectedness that exists between these fields, showing that religious beliefs not only recognize our unity with nature but also inspire action for the Earth’s wellbeing. The course unfolds the idea that understanding these relationships can contribute significantly to broader ecological mindfulness and literacy. The course is structured into ten thoughtfully designed modules, each delving into different religious traditions such as Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, and indigenous practices like Japanese Shinto and Korean Shamanism. As each module progresses, the course examines how each religion engages with environmental issues and the potential they hold for promoting an ecological civilization. **Detailed Module Highlights** 1. **Course Introduction**: This module sets the stage for the entire course, providing an essential foundation on the intertwined relationship between religion and ecology. 2. **Overview of Contemporary Ecological Issues and Religious Environmentalism**: It discusses pressing ecological challenges in China, rooting the conversation in the modern push towards cultivating an “ecological civilization” which serves as a recurring theme throughout the course. 3. **Confucianism and Ecology**: Here, the course dives into the ecological dimensions present in Confucian texts, particularly focusing on the *Analects* and their profound insights on the interconnectedness of the self, society, and nature. 4. **Confucianism and Ecology into the Present**: It evaluates the revival of Confucianism in modern China and discusses its implications for ecological ethics, particularly in areas such as food ethics and biodiversity. 5. **Daoism and Ecology**: The course intricately explores Daoist thought, emphasizing its philosophies around living in harmony with nature, particularly through the concept of *wu-wei*- effortless action. 6. **Daoism and Ecology into the Present**: Examines the historical and contemporary applications of Daoist ecological practices and their connections to holistic wellness. 7. **Buddhism and Ecology**: This module elaborates on the concept of interdependence in Buddhism, drawing connections to environmental stewardship and the ethical treatment of all sentient beings. 8. **East Asian Buddhism: Engaged Ecological Leadership**: The emergence of engaged Buddhism is discussed here, revealing how the bodhisattva ideal translates into contemporary ecological action. 9. **Ecological Rituals in Japanese Shinto and Korean Shamanism**: This module offers insights into the ecological and cosmological aspects of these indigenous traditions, showcasing their enduring relevance to modern ecological discussions. 10. **Course Conclusion**: The course wraps up by synthesizing the key themes and offering reflections on future directions for ecological engagement through the lens of these religions. **Recommendation** I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in the intersection of spirituality, ecology, and cultural studies. Whether you're a student of religious studies, an ecologist, or an individual passionate about environmental issues, "East Asian Religions & Ecology" is sure to expand your perspective. You will find rich content that encourages critical thinking about how ancient wisdom can inform contemporary ecological practices and vice versa. The course is well-structured and accessible, with engaging materials and discussions that foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. By the end, you will be equipped not only with knowledge but also with practical insights that can be applied to foster ecological awareness in everyday life. In today's climate crisis, this course stands as a beacon of hope and wisdom, underscoring the powerful role that spiritual traditions can play in promoting sustainable living and community well-being. Don’t miss the opportunity to enroll in this enlightening journey!

Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

This module explores historical and contemporary ecological challenges in China arising from industrialization and modernization. Because of these environmental pressures, various sectors of Chinese society, including the government, are promoting the concept of “ecological civilization”, which we highlight here. We then explore the intersections of religion and ecology and its promises for East Asia.

We encounter key ideas of Confucianism regarding the interconnection of self, society, education, politics, nature, and the cosmos. We focus on the Analects of Confucius and other significant Confucian texts to explore their ecological dimensions.

After a period of suppression during the Cultural Revolution, Confucianism has revived in China and has important cultural and spiritual influences today. This is seen by many Chinese as valuable for grounding humans in communitarian social and ecological ethics for the common good. We conclude this module with an exploration of selected Confucian perspectives on food, animals, and biodiversity.

Daoism is a tradition with a rich sensibility regarding nature and the mutuality of human-Earth relations. We explore the ecological significance of the term Dao, or Way, as well as the idea of detachment and effortless action (wu-wei). We then reflect on Daoist practices that cultivate the inner landscape of the human in relation to the outer landscape of the natural world.

We explore environmental ideas and practices embedded in schools of Daoism historically and at present. We examine the cultivation of esoteric practices in Daoism related to outer landscapes and the inner organs of the body, as well as contemporary issues of ecology and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

This module explores the basic teachings of Buddhism and their relevance to the environment. We discuss the life of the Buddha and his key insight regarding the interdependence of all reality. In particular, we explore the ecological significance embedded in the “three refuges” vow: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. We then trace the spread of Buddhism across Asia and its diverse expressions in art and culture. We conclude with an examination of environmental teachings in various schools of Buddhism throughout East Asia.

We explore the emergence of the bodhisattva ideal in Mahayana Buddhism of practicing wisdom and compassion for all living beings. We then consider the ecological dimensions of engaged Buddhism within Mahayana and Vajrayana (Tibetan) traditions. Finally, we examine Buddhist teachings on sentient life in relation to food, animals, and biodiversity.

We begin with a description of Japanese Shinto teachings and rituals and illustrate their ecological and cosmological dimensions. Next, we examine Korean shamanism as ecstatic ritual practices for restoring well being and health to the human and natural communities. We consider how these primordial religious practices offer rich insights from a living Earth with ongoing relevance to contemporary ecological challenges.