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Prof. Daniel M. Ogilvie
and
Prof. Leonard W. Hamilton
Throughout history, the vast majority of people around the globe have believed they have, however defined, a “soul.” While the question of whether the soul exists cannot be answered by science, what we can study are the causes and consequences of various beliefs about the soul and its prospects of surviving the death of the body. Why are soul and afterlife beliefs so common in human history? Are there adaptive advantages to assuming souls exist? Are there brain structures that have been shaped by environmental pressures that provide the foundation of body/mind dualism that is such a prominent feature of many religions? How do these beliefs shape the worldviews of different cultures and our collective lives? What is the role of competing afterlife beliefs in religion, science, politics, and war? This course explores several facets of this relatively unexplored but profoundly important aspect of human thought and behavior.
Read more
Throughout history, the vast majority of people around the globe have believed they have, however defined, a “soul.” While the question of whether the soul exists cannot be answered by science, what we can study are the causes and consequences of various beliefs about the soul and its prospects of surviving the death of the body. Why are soul and afterlife beliefs so common in human history? Are there adaptive advantages to assuming souls exist? Are there brain structures that have been shaped by environmental pressures that provide the foundation of body/mind dualism that is such a prominent feature of many religions? How do these beliefs shape the worldviews of different cultures and our collective lives? What is the role of competing afterlife beliefs in religion, science, politics, and war? This course explores several facets of this relatively unexplored but profoundly important aspect of human thought and behavior.
Read more
Throughout history, the vast majority of people around the globe have believed they have, however defined, a “soul.” While the question of whether the soul exists cannot be answered by science, what we can study are the causes and consequences of various beliefs about the soul and its prospects of surviving the death of the body. Why are soul and afterlife beliefs so common in human history? Are there adaptive advantages to assuming souls exist? Are there brain structures that have been shaped by environmental pressures that provide the foundation of body/mind dualism that is such a prominent feature of many religions? How do these beliefs shape the worldviews of different cultures and our collective lives? What is the role of competing afterlife beliefs in religion, science, politics, and war? This course explores several facets of this relatively unexplored but profoundly important aspect of human thought and behavior.
The course consists mainly of 70 to 80 minute lectures, typically broken up into 3 segments, recorded from a course offered by Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences. These videos include slides and some embedded video clips. Most lectures are accompanied by slides used during the lecture, also including recommended reading assignment which may provide additional opportunities to reflect on your studies.
Due to the lengthiness of this class and natural progression, the online course has been separated into 3 units, this is Unit 1.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/5tx3h1/soul
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to the Course
What I was Told to Believe
Historical Foundations of Soul Beliefs #1
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to the Course
What I was Told to Believe
Historical Foundations of Soul Beliefs #1
Read more
Historical Foundations of Soul Beliefs #2
Historical Foundations of Soul Beliefs #3
Functions of Religion in Ancient & Modern Times
Reactions to Scientific Evidence
Religions Under Attack
Big Ideas & Big Controversies
Darwin's Dangerous Idea
The Mind-Body Problem
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores questions about soul and afterlife beliefs, which are common throughout history
Investigates the functions of religion in both ancient and modern times
Taught by Prof. Daniel M. Ogilvie and Prof. Leonard W. Hamilton
Examines the mind-body problem, a topic that has fascinated philosophers for centuries
Covers a wide range of topics, from historical foundations to reactions to scientific evidence
Save this course
Save Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 1: Historical Foundations to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Introduces historical soul perspectives
According to students, Historical Soul Beliefs is an introductory course that engages learners on the historical and philosophical foundations of soul beliefs. Learners say this interdisciplinary course highlights the sociocultural and psychological aspects of religious views.
Teaches from a variety of academic perspectives.
"This is a inter-disciplinary approach where Socio-Psycho-Cultural aspects of religious views are explained."
Keeps students engaged in the subject matter.
"This was a great course. It opened my eyes to a different perspective of the soul. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to explore other views."
Introduces learners to historical soul beliefs.
"This course opened my eyes to a different perspective of the soul."
"An excellent course, covering an often neglected topic."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 1: Historical Foundations with these
activities:
Learn about the history of soul beliefs
Show steps
Following video tutorials on the history of soul beliefs will provide a good foundation for the course material.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
-
Watch the first three videos in the Coursera course on the history of soul beliefs.
-
Take notes on the key points from the videos.
Read 'The Mind-Body Problem' by David Chalmers
Show steps
Reading David Chalmers' book on the mind-body problem will provide a good foundation for the course material.
View
A Pluralist Theory of the Mind (European...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the first three chapters of the book.
-
Summarize the main arguments in the book.
Discuss the soul beliefs of different cultures
Show steps
Discussing soul beliefs with peers will help you to understand the different perspectives on this topic.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
-
Find a study partner or group to discuss the soul beliefs of different cultures.
-
Prepare a short presentation on your findings.
-
Lead a discussion on the different perspectives on soul beliefs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice identifying soul beliefs in religious texts
Show steps
Practicing identifying soul beliefs in religious texts will help you to better understand the course material.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
-
Find a religious text that you are interested in.
-
Read through the text and identify any passages that discuss soul beliefs.
-
Summarize the key points of the passages that you have identified.
Write an essay on the role of soul beliefs in your own life
Show steps
Writing an essay on the role of soul beliefs in your own life will help you to reflect on your own beliefs and values.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
-
Think about your own beliefs and values.
-
Write an essay that explores the role of soul beliefs in your own life.
Start a project on the afterlife beliefs of different religions
Show steps
Starting a project on the afterlife beliefs of different religions will help you to understand the different perspectives on this topic.
Browse courses on
Afterlife Beliefs
Show steps
-
Choose a specific religion to focus on.
-
Research the afterlife beliefs of the religion.
-
Create a presentation or report on your findings.
Create a compilation of resources on the soul
Show steps
Creating a compilation of resources on the soul will help you to organize and review the course material.
Show steps
-
Find resources on the soul from a variety of sources.
-
Organize the resources into a coherent collection.
-
Share the compilation with others.
Learn about the history of soul beliefs
Show steps
Following video tutorials on the history of soul beliefs will provide a good foundation for the course material.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch the first three videos in the Coursera course on the history of soul beliefs.
- Take notes on the key points from the videos.
Read 'The Mind-Body Problem' by David Chalmers
Show steps
Reading David Chalmers' book on the mind-body problem will provide a good foundation for the course material.
View
A Pluralist Theory of the Mind (European...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the first three chapters of the book.
- Summarize the main arguments in the book.
Discuss the soul beliefs of different cultures
Show steps
Discussing soul beliefs with peers will help you to understand the different perspectives on this topic.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study partner or group to discuss the soul beliefs of different cultures.
- Prepare a short presentation on your findings.
- Lead a discussion on the different perspectives on soul beliefs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice identifying soul beliefs in religious texts
Show steps
Practicing identifying soul beliefs in religious texts will help you to better understand the course material.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a religious text that you are interested in.
- Read through the text and identify any passages that discuss soul beliefs.
- Summarize the key points of the passages that you have identified.
Write an essay on the role of soul beliefs in your own life
Show steps
Writing an essay on the role of soul beliefs in your own life will help you to reflect on your own beliefs and values.
Browse courses on
Soul Beliefs
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Think about your own beliefs and values.
- Write an essay that explores the role of soul beliefs in your own life.
Start a project on the afterlife beliefs of different religions
Show steps
Starting a project on the afterlife beliefs of different religions will help you to understand the different perspectives on this topic.
Browse courses on
Afterlife Beliefs
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific religion to focus on.
- Research the afterlife beliefs of the religion.
- Create a presentation or report on your findings.
Create a compilation of resources on the soul
Show steps
Creating a compilation of resources on the soul will help you to organize and review the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find resources on the soul from a variety of sources.
- Organize the resources into a coherent collection.
- Share the compilation with others.
Career center
Learners who complete Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 1: Historical Foundations will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Religious Studies Professor
Religious Studies Professor
Religious Studies Professors teach courses on religion and religious beliefs. They use their knowledge to help students understand the different religions of the world and their impact on society. This course may be useful for Religious Studies Professors who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped different religions.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the cultures of different societies. They use their knowledge to understand how people live and interact with each other in different cultures. This course may be useful for Cultural Anthropologists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped different cultures.
Historian
Historian
Historians study the past to understand the present. They use their knowledge to reconstruct historical events and to interpret their significance. This course may be useful for historians who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped human history.
Theologian
Theologian
Theologians study religion and religious beliefs. They use their knowledge to understand the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the role of religion in society. This course may be useful for theologians who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped different religions.
Philosopher
Philosopher
Philosophers study the fundamental questions of life and existence. They use their knowledge to develop theories about the nature of reality, knowledge, and ethics. This course may be useful for philosophers who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped human thought and behavior.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study the material remains of past cultures to learn about their history and way of life. This course may be useful for Archaeologists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human cultures and societies. They use their knowledge to understand how people live and interact with each other. This course may be useful for anthropologists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped different cultures.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human societies and how they function. They use their knowledge to understand how people interact with each other and how society shapes our lives. A course like this one may be useful for sociologists who want to learn more about how soul beliefs have shaped human societies and how they continue to influence our lives today.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists are responsible for the preservation and management of historical records. They use their knowledge of history and archival practices to ensure that these records are accessible to researchers and the public. This course may be useful for Archivists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic Anthropologists use their knowledge of human anatomy and archaeology to assist in criminal investigations. They use their skills to identify and analyze human remains and to provide information about the circumstances of death. This course may be useful for Forensic Anthropologists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists study the mind and behavior. They use their knowledge to help people with mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and addiction. This course may be useful for psychologists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have shaped human thought and behavior.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators are responsible for the care and display of museum collections. They use their knowledge of history and culture to interpret and present museum objects to the public. This course may be useful for Museum Curators who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. They use their knowledge of library resources to assist patrons with their research and other needs. This course may be useful for Librarians who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Medical Examiner
Medical Examiner
Medical Examiners are responsible for investigating deaths and determining the cause of death. They use their knowledge of medicine and pathology to perform autopsies and other examinations. This course may be useful for Medical Examiners who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
Genealogist
Genealogist
Genealogists research family histories. They use their knowledge of history and genealogy to trace family lineages and uncover information about ancestors. This course may be useful for Genealogists who want to learn more about the historical foundations of soul beliefs and how they have been expressed in different cultures.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5tx3h1/soul
Reading list
We've selected 41 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Soul Beliefs: Causes and Consequences - Unit 1: Historical Foundations.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of the soul from philosophical, theological, and scientific perspectives, offering insights into the historical foundations of soul beliefs and their relevance to contemporary thought.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the concept of the soul in Western thought, from ancient Greece to the present day. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the historical foundations of soul beliefs.
Explores the concept of the soul in ancient Greek philosophy, focusing on the works of Plato and Aristotle. It provides insights into the origins of Western thought on the nature of the soul.
Save
Provides a great background on the history of soul beliefs in the Western tradition.
Save
Provides a historical overview of the concept of the soul in Western thought, from ancient Greece to the present day. It explores the different philosophical and religious perspectives on the nature of the soul.
Save
Collection of essays that explore the nature of the self and the soul, with a focus on the philosophical and scientific implications of these concepts.
Save
Presents a practical guide to spiritual growth, based on the author's research into past-life regression. It offers insights into the nature of the soul, its journey through different lives, and its ultimate purpose.
Save
Explores the psychological and evolutionary roots of our moral beliefs. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the role of religion and spirituality in human society.
Save
Explores the social and psychological factors that contribute to our sense of self, with a focus on the role of the brain in creating our identity.
Challenges the traditional notion of the self as a unified entity.
Save
Argues that human nature is not a blank slate, but rather a product of our evolutionary history. It challenging and provocative read for anyone interested in the nature of human beings.
Save
Investigates the historical roots of the belief in the soul and afterlife in Western culture. It explores the role of secret societies and religious movements in the development of these beliefs.
Explores the scientific evidence for and against the existence of parallel universes, with a focus on the implications of this concept for our understanding of the soul.
Presents the personal account of a neurosurgeon who experienced a near-death experience that led him to believe in the existence of the soul. It offers insights into the nature of consciousness and the afterlife.
Save
Provides a history of chess, which can be seen as a metaphor for the human search for meaning.
Explores the scientific evidence for and against the existence of the soul, with a focus on the implications of modern cosmology for our understanding of the afterlife.
Explores the theory that the universe hologram, and that consciousness fundamental aspect of reality. It suggests that the soul may be a holographic projection of the entire universe.
Save
Explores the possibility of parallel universes and its implications for our understanding of the soul.
Classic exploration of the universe and our place in it. It beautifully written and inspiring read for anyone interested in the big questions about our existence.
Argues that religious belief is irrational and harmful. It presents a case for atheism and secularism, and challenges the belief in the soul and afterlife.
Explores the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the brain. It argues that consciousness is not simply a product of the brain, but rather an independent phenomenon.
Save
Offers a spiritual perspective on the search for happiness.
Save
Offers a practical guide to finding happiness.
Offers a guide to spiritual enlightenment.
Save
Comprehensive introduction to the philosophy of mind, with a focus on the nature of consciousness and the relationship between the mind and the body.
Save
Presents a neuroscientific perspective on the existence of the soul. It explores the evidence from brain imaging studies that suggests that consciousness may not be entirely dependent on the physical brain.
Save
Explores the psychological and cultural dimensions of our fear of death. It challenging and provocative read for anyone interested in understanding the human condition.
Classic study of the nature of religious experience. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the psychology of religion.
Save
Comprehensive overview of the latest research on the philosophy of religion, with a focus on the philosophical implications of this research.
Explores the problem of evil, which is the question of how to reconcile the existence of evil with the existence of a good God. It presents different philosophical arguments and perspectives on this issue.
Explores the universal themes and symbols found in myths and legends from around the world. It fascinating read for anyone interested in the human imagination.
Comprehensive overview of the latest research on the philosophy of religion, with a focus on the philosophical implications of this research.
Save
Collection of case studies of patients with neurological disorders that affect their perception and understanding of the world. It fascinating and moving read for anyone interested in the human mind.
This online encyclopedia comprehensive overview of the latest research on philosophy of religion, with a focus on the philosophical implications of this research.
Save
Classic defense of the mind-body problem. It challenging but rewarding read for anyone interested in the philosophy of mind.
Explores the future of neuroscience and its potential to enhance and empower the human mind. It discusses topics such as brain-computer interfaces, artificial intelligence, and the possibility of uploading consciousness to a computer.
Save
Explores the psychological and social dimensions of the self. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the psychology of personality.
Explores the concept of the singularity, which is the hypothetical point in time when artificial intelligence will surpass human intelligence. It discusses the potential implications of this for the future of humanity.
Classic study of the history and philosophy of science. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the nature of scientific knowledge.
Explores the question of the meaning of life from a philosophical perspective. It discusses different philosophical theories and approaches to this question, and offers insights into how we can find meaning and purpose in our lives.
This online encyclopedia comprehensive overview of the latest research on philosophy of religion, with a focus on the philosophical implications of this research.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5tx3h1/soul
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Effort
15 hours of videos, quizzes and peer review
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Instructors
Prof. Daniel M. Ogilvie
Prof. Leonard W. Hamilton
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
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日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
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қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Good to know
Explores questions about soul and afterlife beliefs, which are common throughout history
Investigates the functions of religion in both ancient and modern times
Taught by Prof. Daniel M. Ogilvie and Prof. Leonard W. Hamilton
Examines the mind-body problem, a topic that has fascinated philosophers for centuries
Covers a wide range of topics, from historical foundations to reactions to scientific evidence
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