South Asian Religions & Ecology from Coursera

At first glance the fields of religion and ecology may seem and unlikely pairing, but a deeper consideration reveals the two have a great deal to contribute to one another and are indeed inextricably linked. Religions recognize the unity and interdependence of humans with nature. Ecological sciences affirm this deep interconnection with the natural world. This partnership can inspire work for the wellbeing of the Earth community

There is a need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world’s religions and their ecological contributions. This specialization, "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community", contributes such a perspective. Each course celebrates the vitality of religiously-informed action for the Earth and recognizes the longstanding contributions of Indigenous peoples in offering visions and practices for ecological flourishing.

This course is part 3 of 5 of the "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community" specialization that focuses on the ecological dimensions of religious traditions throughout the world.

The course you are about to begin is designed as a gateway to these aspects of the South Asian religions, philosophies, and practices of Hinduism, Jainism, Yoga, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Baha’i Faith. So much has emerged in the last several decades in this area, as you will see. While we have taught this course at Yale, we have adapted it for learners from a wide range of backgrounds.

This course is for lifelong learners curious to know more about world religions and ecology, environmental professionals eager to deepen the discourse of environmental protection and conservation, those working with non-profit organizations and NGOs on issues of ecological justice, and religion leaders and laity who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects.

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Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

MODULE 2: Introduction to South Asian Ecological Challenges and Religion and Ecology

We examine some of the key environmental problems in India and the larger region. With over a billion people and with rapid industrialization, levels of pollution of air, water, and soil have increased dramatically in the last several decades. We then explore the intersections of religion and ecology and its promises for South Asia.

MODULE 3: Hinduism and Ecology - From Vedas to Vedanta (Upanishads)

We explore some of the oldest scriptures in the world, the Vedas and the Upanishads, and their connections to nature. These foundational texts have been studied and interpreted for centuries in India and are now translated into many languages. They have also influenced many Western writers and thinkers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and T.S. Elliot. Now their ecological implications are being appreciated for religious environmentalism.

MODULE 4: Hinduism and Loving Devotion (Bhakti) in Practice

We examine the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, especially the idea of devotion (bhakti), namely, affection to the divine as manifested in human and natural forms. Major examples of such devotion are found in the sacred rivers of India, namely the Yamuna and Ganga. We also highlight Hindu perspectives on food, animals, and biodiversity.

MODULE 5: Yoga and Jainism - Detachment from and Affirmation of the World

We look at the teachings of yoga as both an ancient philosophy and a modern practice with ecological implications. We then explore the significance of yoga for environmental awareness and action. We conclude by examining the ecological teachings of Jainism and its reverence for all forms of life.

MODULE 6: Buddhism and Ecology: The Interdependence of All Reality

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. We then consider the spread of Buddhism across Asia and its diverse expressions in art and culture. We also recognize the presence of Buddhism in the West and its influence on ecological engagement.

MODULE 7: Buddhism in Southeast Asia: Engaged Conservation

This module explores Buddhist forest protection in Southeast Asia as well as Buddhist attitudes toward food, animals, and biodiversity. The teachings of the Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thích Nhất Hạnh, are highlighted with particular attention to “interbeing,” or interdependence.

MODULE 8: Sikhism and the Baha’i Faith: Unity of Spirit and Matter

We examine the teachings of Sikhism as articulated by their founder, Guru Nanak, and their central scripture, Adi Granth. In Sikh understanding there is no separation between humans and the rest of nature; this gives rise to an environmental ethic of care explicitly expressed in Sikh tree planting and a social justice ethic focused on food distribution. The second section emphasizes the Baha’i Faith and the ways it integrates the teaching of unity with ecological knowledge and engagement. For several decades, the Baha’i Faith has been actively engaged in international forums on the environment.

MODULE 9: Course Conclusion

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Explores the intersection of religion and ecology, highlighting their interconnectedness and the importance of ecological sciences in affirming this deep connection

Emphasizes the need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world's religions and their ecological contributions, making it relevant for environmental professionals, non-profit organizations, and religious leaders

Taught by Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim, renowned scholars in the field of religion and ecology, lending credibility and expertise to the course content

Covers a diverse range of topics, including Hinduism, Jainism, Yoga, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Baha'i Faith, providing a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religious traditions

Provides a strong foundation for understanding the ecological challenges faced by South Asia and the role of religion in addressing them

Examines the ecological teachings of Jainism and its reverence for all forms of life, highlighting the importance of non-violence and compassion towards the environment

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 South Asian Religions & Ecology with these activities:

Practice Guided Meditations

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Regular practice of guided meditations can enhance your ability to connect with nature and cultivate a sense of ecological interconnectedness.

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Find a collection of guided meditations that focus on nature and ecological themes.
Set aside a dedicated time each day for meditation.
Follow the instructions in the meditations to connect with your breath, your surroundings, and the wider web of life.
Reflect on your experiences and insights after each meditation session.

Create a Personal Learning Binder

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Effectively organize and revisit your course materials for better retention and recall.

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Gather all relevant course materials, including lecture notes, readings, assignments, and any additional resources.
Organize the materials into a logical structure that aligns with the course modules or topics.
Include summaries, highlights, or annotations to aid your understanding and recollection.

Form a Study Group

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Enhance your learning through collaborative discussions and knowledge exchange with fellow students.

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Identify a group of peers who share your interests or learning goals.
Establish regular meeting times and a dedicated communication channel.
Take turns leading discussions, presenting summaries, and sharing insights on course topics.

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Write a Reflective Essay

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Develop a deeper understanding of your own views on the relationship between religion, ecology, and environmental stewardship.

Browse courses on Religion and Ecology

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Choose a specific topic or theme related to religion and ecology that interests or resonates with you.
Research and gather information to support your ideas and arguments.
Craft a well-written essay that clearly articulates your perspectives and insights.

Develop a Personal Sustainability Plan

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Take ownership of your environmental impact and create a practical plan for minimizing your ecological footprint.

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Assess your current lifestyle and identify areas where you can reduce your environmental impact.
Research and explore sustainable practices and technologies that align with your values and goals.
Develop a comprehensive plan that outlines specific actions, timelines, and expected outcomes.

The Upanishads by Eknath Easwaran

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This book provides a deep dive into the ancient wisdom of the Upanishads, fostering a better grasp of Hinduism's ecological principles.

View Names of the Lord: Spiritual Living for Today... on Amazon

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Read the introduction and first chapter to familiarize yourself with the overall message and key concepts of the book.
Choose a specific Upanishad that resonates with you and delve deeper into its teachings.
Reflect on how these teachings relate to the course topics and your own understanding of the relationship between religion and ecology.

Buddhist Scriptures: A New Anthology of Translations from the Pali Canon

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Deepen your understanding of Buddhism's ecological teachings and practices through an engaged study of its sacred texts.

View Reading the Buddha's Discourses in Pali on Amazon

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Read the introductory sections to gain context and background on the Pali Canon.
Select a specific sutta or discourse that resonates with you and analyze its teachings on interdependence.
Consider how these teachings apply to your own life and the broader ecological challenges we face.
Engage in discussions or write a summary to share your insights and connect with other learners.

Attend a Mindfulness and Nature Meditation Workshop

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Cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world and enhance your understanding of ecological relationships through mindfulness practices.

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Find and register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the guided meditations and discussions.
Reflect on your experiences and insights, and consider how they apply to your life and the broader ecological context.

Career center

Learners who complete South Asian Religions & Ecology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Buddhist Chaplain

A Buddhist Chaplain provides spiritual care to Buddhists. This course may be useful to a Buddhist Chaplain because it provides a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religions, which could help inform their work with Buddhists.

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Environmental Activist

An Environmental Activist works to protect the environment. This course may be useful to an Environmental Activist because it provides a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religions, which could help inform their activism.

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Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator

An Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator helps facilitate dialogue between people of different faiths. This course may be useful to an Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator because it provides a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religions, which could help inform their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator

South Asia Studies Professor

A South Asia Studies Professor teaches about South Asia and its various aspects. This course may be useful to a South Asia Studies Professor because it provides a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religions, which could help inform their teaching and research.

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Religious Studies Professor

A Religious Studies Professor teaches about religion and its various aspects. This course may be useful to a Religious Studies Professor because it provides a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions of South Asian religions, which could help inform their teaching and research.

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Environmental Scientist

An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and its components. This course may be useful to an Environmental Scientist because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform environmental science research in South Asia.

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Ecologist

An Ecologist studies the interactions between organisms and their environment. This course may be useful to an Ecologist because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform ecological research in South Asia.

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Environmental Consultant

An Environmental Consultant provides advice to organizations and governments on environmental issues. This course may be useful to an Environmental Consultant because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform environmental consulting in South Asia.

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Natural Resource Manager

A Natural Resource Manager helps manage natural resources, such as forests, water, and minerals. This course may be useful to a Natural Resource Manager because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform natural resource management in South Asia.

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Environmental Lawyer

An Environmental Lawyer helps protect the environment through legal action. This course may be useful to an Environmental Lawyer because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform environmental law in South Asia.

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Environmental Policy Analyst

An Environmental Policy Analyst researches and analyzes environmental issues to help inform policy decisions. This course may be useful to an Environmental Policy Analyst because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform environmental policy in South Asia.

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Environmental Educator

An Environmental Educator teaches people about environmental issues. This course may be useful to an Environmental Educator because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform environmental education in South Asia.

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Conservationist

A Conservationist helps protect and manage natural resources. This course may be useful to a Conservationist because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform conservation efforts in South Asia.

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Wildlife Biologist

A Wildlife Biologist studies wildlife and their habitats. This course may be useful to a Wildlife Biologist because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform wildlife conservation in South Asia.

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Sustainability Consultant

A Sustainability Consultant helps organizations and governments develop and implement sustainable practices. This course may be useful to a Sustainability Consultant because it helps build a foundation in the ecological principles of various South Asian religions, which could help inform sustainability consulting in South Asia.

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South Asian Religions & Ecology

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