East 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 4 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 East Asian religions, philosophies, and practices of Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Shinto, and Shamanism. 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: Overview of Contemporary Ecological Issues and Religious Environmentalism

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.

MODULE 3: Introduction and Overview: Confucianism and Ecology

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.

MODULE 4: Confucianism and Ecology into the Present

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.

MODULE 5: Introduction and Overview: Daoism and Ecology

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.

MODULE 6: Daoism and Ecology into the Present

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).

MODULE 7: Buddhism and Ecology: The Interdependence of 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. 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.

MODULE 8: East Asian Buddhism: Engaged Ecological Leadership

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.

MODULE 9: Ecological Rituals in Japanese Shinto and Korean Shamanism

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.

MODULE 10: Course Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good

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Introduces learners to topics of religious ecology and its varied expressions

Provides valuable insights from East Asia engagement with environmentalism, which can help learners better understand the complex relationship between religion and ecology

Offers a comprehensive overview of the ecological dimensions found in various religious traditions and explores their contributions to the wellbeing of the Earth community, making it relevant for those interested in work for the wellbeing of the Earth community

Explores the historical and contemporary ecological challenges in China and the concept of “ecological civilization”, a perspective that promotes communitarian social and ecological ethics for the common good

Emphasizes Confucian teachings about the interdependence of humans with nature and explores their implications for contemporary environmental issues

Delves into the ecological aspects of Daoism and its teachings on detachment, balance, and the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world, providing a holistic understanding of nature's significance

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 East Asian Religions & Ecology with these activities:

Explore the East Asian Religions and Ecology website

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Become familiar with the resources available on this website.

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Visit the website: https://eastasianreligionsandecology.org/
Explore the different sections of the website, including the articles, videos, and podcasts.
Choose one resource to read or watch and take notes on the main ideas.

Read 'World Religions and Ecology: Culture, History, and Practice'

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Start by reviewing this foundational textbook for the course to refresh your knowledge of the field.

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Purchase the book or borrow it from the library.
Read the introduction and the first chapter.
Summarize the main ideas in your own words.

Join a study group with other students in the course

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Connect with other students, learn from their perspectives, and test your understanding.

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Post a message on the course discussion board or reach out to classmates directly to find potential study partners.
Schedule regular meetings with your study group.
Discuss the course material, ask questions, and share your insights.

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Develop a research question on East Asian religions and ecology

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Start thinking about a research topic that you can explore throughout the course.

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Brainstorm a list of topics that interest you.
Narrow down your list to a few potential research questions.
Develop a research question that is specific, focused, and feasible.
Write a brief proposal outlining your research question and your plan for answering it.

Attend a workshop on East Asian religions and ecology

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Gain insights from experts and engage in discussions on specific topics.

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Search for workshops on East Asian religions and ecology.
Register for a workshop that interests you.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the discussions.

Write a blog post on a topic related to East Asian religions and ecology

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Share your knowledge and insights on a topic of your choice.

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Choose a topic that you are interested in and that you have some knowledge of.
Research your topic thoroughly.
Write a draft of your blog post.
Edit and revise your blog post.
Publish your blog post on a website or blog platform.

Participate in the 'East Asian Religions and Ecology Essay Contest'

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Challenge yourself to produce a high-quality essay on a related topic.

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Read the contest guidelines carefully.
Choose a topic that you are passionate about.
Research your topic thoroughly.
Write a draft of your essay.
Edit and revise your essay.
Submit your essay to the contest.

Develop a lesson plan on East Asian religions and ecology

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Translate your understanding of the course material into a practical tool for others.

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Choose a specific grade level and subject area for your lesson plan.
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Select and organize the content you will cover in your lesson.
Develop engaging activities and assignments for your students.
Write a detailed lesson plan.

Career center

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

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists apply the principles of ecology to the environment and ecosystems. They study environmental problems and develop solutions, monitoring the impact of human activities on the environment. Knowledge of the Earth's ecosystems, pollution, conservation, and ecological restoration would be highly valuable to aspiring Environmental Scientists. This course offers a general overview of East Asian religions and their ecological dimensions. It could build a foundation in religion and ecological issues for Environmental Scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers develop and implement policies and programs that make organizations more environmentally friendly. They track energy use, waste production, and water consumption. Some Sustainability Managers may oversee sustainable agriculture or forest management programs. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Climate Change Policy Analyst

Climate Change Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies to address the causes and effects of climate change. They analyze climate policies, assess their effectiveness, and develop new policies. Climate Change Policy Analysts need to understand environmental issues and public policy. This course can build a foundation in ecological issues and how religions can contribute to environmental protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Policy Analyst

Conservation Officer

Conservation Officers enforce environmental laws and regulations. They investigate environmental crimes, such as poaching and pollution. Some Conservation Officers also work on habitat restoration projects. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Officer

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants help businesses and organizations comply with environmental laws and regulations. They also develop and implement environmental management plans. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers represent clients in court and advise them on environmental law. They may also work for government agencies or environmental organizations. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in shaping environmental laws and regulations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work on projects such as water treatment, air pollution control, and waste management. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting environmental protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Climate Scientist

Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate and climate change. They collect and analyze data, develop models, and make predictions about future climate conditions. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in shaping climate policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Scientist

Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. They conduct research on topics such as population ecology, community ecology, and ecosystem ecology. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in shaping environmental policies.

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Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies to protect the environment. They work for government agencies, think tanks, and environmental organizations. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in shaping environmental policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Activist

Environmental Activists work to protect the environment and promote sustainability. They organize campaigns, lobby politicians, and educate the public about environmental issues. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting environmental protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Activist

Environmental Planner

Environmental Planners develop and implement plans to protect the environment. They work for government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in shaping environmental policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Planner

Sustainability Specialist

Sustainability Specialists develop and implement sustainability programs for businesses and organizations. They track energy use, waste production, and water consumption. Some Sustainability Specialists may oversee sustainable agriculture or forest management programs. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Specialist

Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators teach people about environmental issues. They develop and deliver educational programs for schools, businesses, and community groups. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting environmental protection.

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Environmental Protection Specialist

Environmental Protection Specialists enforce environmental laws and regulations. They work for government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations. This course could build a foundation in ecological issues and the role of religion in promoting environmental protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Protection Specialist