Introduction to 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, starting with this course, 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 one of the "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community" series of classes 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 the other classes. It describes the nature of religion as well as the emergence of the field of ecology. In addition, it highlights concerns for forestry issues, the climate emergency, global ethics, and environmental justice.

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.

What's inside

Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

MODULE 2: The Emergence of the Field of Religion and Ecology

We explore the origins of the field of Religion and Ecology and the contemporary context of the Anthropocene, the geological era in which humans exert a dominant influence on climate and the environment. We also discuss the problems and promises of religions in addressing the ecological challenges of our time.

MODULE 3: Religious Ecology: Orienting, Grounding, Nurturing, Transforming

We first explore the nature of religions as symbolic systems. We then consider religious ecology and religious cosmology as ways in which humans envision their place within the Earth and the Cosmos. To conclude, we explore how religions can orient, ground, nurture, and transform humans in relationship with the planet.

MODULE 4: Views of Nature in the West

We explore views of nature in the West by first examining the transition from the Animism of the early Mediterranean world to the Monotheism of the later Abrahamic traditions. We then consider the legacies of Enlightenment rationalism and the ways in which the Romantic and Transcendentalist movements responded through their emphasis on emotion, intuition, and spirituality in the natural world. We conclude by exploring how modern science offers a new story for understanding nature within an expanding and evolving universe.

MODULE 5: Ecology, Conservation, and Ethics

We explore the emergence of the scientific field of ecology and the movement from holism to biometrics in understanding natural systems. We also consider the legacies of figures such as John Muir, Aldo Leopold, and Rachel Carson in shaping the American environmental movement.

MODULE 6: Emergence of the Moral Force of Religion and Ecology

We explore the global emergence of religious ecological engagement in recent decades. We then focus on religiously-inspired efforts to protect forests before hearing from different voices on the climate emergency.

MODULE 7: Building on Interreligious Dialogue: Global Ethics and Environmental Justice

We examine how interreligious dialogue and environmental movements gave rise to the Earth Charter, the first comprehensive global ethic integrating ecology, justice, and peace. We then consider the emergence of the environmental justice movement and its implications for marginalized communities around the world. This includes an exploration of the Ecojustice Hub on the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology. To conclude, we consider our shared challenges ahead and the prospect of creating ecological cultures.

MODULE 8: Course Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a foundational exploration of the relationship between religion and ecology

Covers a wide range of topics, including religious ecology, environmental justice, and global ethics

Led by instructors Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim, who are recognized for their work in the field of religion and ecology

Part of a larger series of courses on religions and ecology, offering a comprehensive study of the topic

Emphasizes the importance of interreligious dialogue and environmental protection

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 Introduction to Religions & Ecology with these activities:

Volunteer as a Mentor for Students Interested in Religion and Ecology

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Share your knowledge and experience with students who are exploring the field of religion and ecology, and guide their learning journey.

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Connect with local schools or organizations that offer mentorship programs
Prepare a brief introduction and statement of your interests and expertise
Meet with students regularly to provide guidance, support, and resources
Share your own experiences and insights in the field of religion and ecology
Receive feedback from students and continuously adapt your mentoring approach

Create a Digital Notebook for Course Resources

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Organize and consolidate your learning materials to enhance your retention and access to important course content.

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Gather all relevant class materials, including notes, handouts, and assignments
Digitize the materials using a scanning or note-taking app
Organize the digital materials into different folders or sections
Regularly review and update your digital notebook

Read "Ecological Ethics" by Mark Sagoff

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Reinforce your knowledge of environmental ethics, a key component of the field of religion and ecology.

View The Economy of the Earth on Amazon

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Gather required materials: the book "Ecological Ethics"
Read the introduction and Chapter 1
Summarize the main arguments and themes of the chapters you read
Reflect on how the concepts discussed in the book connect to the field of religion and ecology

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Analyze Case Studies on the Impact of Religion on Environmental Issues

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Develop critical thinking skills by examining real-world examples of the influence of religion on environmental issues.

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Read and understand the provided case studies
Identify the key issues and religious perspectives presented in the case studies
Develop arguments and counterarguments for each religious perspective
Participate in class discussions and debates on the case studies

Attend Online Workshops on Interfaith Environmental Advocacy

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Gain insights and practical skills from experts in the field of interfaith ecology through online workshops.

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Research and identify relevant online workshops
Register for and attend the workshops
Take notes and participate in discussions
Apply the knowledge and skills gained in the workshops to your own projects or initiatives

Create a Presentation on the Relationship between Religion and Ecology

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Demonstrate your understanding of the complex relationship between religion and ecology by creating a visual and informative presentation for your peers.

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Gather information and research the relationship between religion and ecology
Develop an outline and storyboard for your presentation
Create visuals and slides using presentation software
Practice your presentation and receive feedback from peers
Deliver your presentation to your classmates

Develop a Personal Code of Ecological Ethics

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Apply the concepts of religion and ecology to your own life and develop a set of ethical principles that guide your actions and decisions.

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Research different ethical frameworks and philosophies
Reflect on your own values and beliefs
Develop a list of ethical principles that guide your relationship with the natural world
Implement your code of ethics in your daily life

Develop a Proposal for an Interfaith Environmental Initiative

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Apply your knowledge of religion and ecology to a practical project by designing an initiative that fosters interfaith cooperation on environmental issues.

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Identify a specific environmental issue and research interfaith perspectives on the issue
Develop a plan for an initiative that brings together different faith communities
Describe the goals, objectives, and activities of the initiative
Outline a budget and timeline for the initiative
Present your proposal to a panel of experts for feedback

Career center

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

Urban Planner

Urban Planners develop and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and implementing plans that are responsive to the needs and values of religious communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists work to protect the environment and human health. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for working with religious communities and organizations on environmental projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and implementing programs that are aligned with the values and beliefs of religious communities.

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Conservation Biologist

Conservation Biologists study and work to protect the natural world. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for working with religious communities and organizations on conservation projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Biologist

Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for understanding how religious beliefs and values influence people's interactions with the natural world.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ecologist

Public Policy Analyst

Public Policy Analysts develop and analyze public policies. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and analyzing policies that are responsive to the needs and values of religious communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Policy Analyst

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers oversee sustainability programs for businesses and organizations. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and implementing sustainability programs that are aligned with the values and beliefs of religious communities.

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Energy Policy Analyst

Energy Policy Analysts develop and analyze energy policies. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and analyzing policies that are responsive to the needs and values of religious communities.

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Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators teach people about the environment and how to protect it. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and delivering educational programs that resonate with people's religious and spiritual values.

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Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers advocate for the protection of the environment. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for working with religious communities and organizations on environmental law and policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts develop and analyze environmental policies. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and analyzing policies that are responsive to the needs and values of religious communities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Economist

Environmental Economists study the economic impacts of environmental policies and regulations. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for understanding how religious values and beliefs influence economic decisions and policies that affect the environment.

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Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator

Interfaith Dialogue Facilitators promote understanding and cooperation between people of different religious backgrounds. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and facilitating dialogue programs that focus on environmental issues.

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Religious Leader

Religious Leaders provide spiritual guidance to their communities. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and delivering sermons and teachings that inspire people to care for the Earth.

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International Development Professional

International Development Professionals work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. A course in Religions and Ecology may be useful for someone in this field, as it would provide a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual dimensions of environmentalism. This could be helpful for developing and implementing programs that are responsive to the needs and values of religious communities.

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