PHIL 111 Introduction to Japanese Zen Buddhism

This course is an interdisciplinary introduction to the worldview of Japanese Zen Buddhism, using the categories and methods of philosophy and including the historical and cultural milieu of Japan, Zen painting, haiku, and sand gardens, as well as ancient medieval, and modern Zen wisdom texts from around the world and experiential practice in zazen or sitting meditation.

Credits

1

Prerequisite

Eligible to enroll in ENGL 121

Hours Weekly

1

Course Objectives

1. 1. Analyze Zen Buddhism’s worldview on metaphysics, with respect to self, human nature, the cosmos, and ultimate reality; on epistemology or knowledge theory; and on axiology or values with respect to ethics and the moral life.
2. 2. Compare and contrast Zen Buddhism and Western philosophy under the categories of metaphysics, epistemology, and axiology.
3. 3. Experience zazen meditation as an aid in the lifelong pursuit of enlightenment; read Zen literature, instructional and poetic, and view Zen art with insight, seeing both as shapers of Japanese aesthetic and ethical perspectives.
4. 4. Critically examine the Zen Buddhist worldview and its role in shaping Japanese culture and Japan’s responses to global events.

Course Objectives

1. 1. Analyze Zen Buddhism’s worldview on metaphysics, with respect to self, human nature, the cosmos, and ultimate reality; on epistemology or knowledge theory; and on axiology or values with respect to ethics and the moral life.
2. 2. Compare and contrast Zen Buddhism and Western philosophy under the categories of metaphysics, epistemology, and axiology.
3. 3. Experience zazen meditation as an aid in the lifelong pursuit of enlightenment; read Zen literature, instructional and poetic, and view Zen art with insight, seeing both as shapers of Japanese aesthetic and ethical perspectives.
4. 4. Critically examine the Zen Buddhist worldview and its role in shaping Japanese culture and Japan’s responses to global events.