Foundational Tenets and Practices of Buddhism

This course surveys the diverse ideals, practices, and traditions of Buddhism in its formative period in India. By reading primary and secondary sources central to Buddhism, we will examine key concepts, doctrines, and practices in the Theravada, Mahayana, and Tantric traditions. Having acquired a solid understanding of the history and doctrine of Buddhism, students will learn to apply these understandings to critically analyze contemporary issues from a Buddhist perspective.