World Religions

Course Code: А504

Course Instructor: David W. Shenk, PhD

 

READING REQUIREMENTS

Textbook:

David W. Shenk, Global Gods: Exploring the Role of Religions in Modern Societies

 

The student will read the text related to the topic before he/she hears the lecture on that topic.

 

WEEK 2

Chapter 1. The Gods and Global Community

P. 29-52

 

WEEK 3

Chapter 7. Yahweh Against the Gods: The Bible

P. 177-211

 

WEEK 4

Chapter 3. God Went Away: African Religions

P. 72-95

 

WEEK 5

Chapter 4. All Is Brahman: Hinduism

P. 96-124

 

WEEK 6

Chapter 5. Peace Without God:Buddha

P. 125-155

 

WEEK 7

Chapter 6. Ignore the Gods: Confucius and Plato

P. 156-176

 

WEEK 8

Chapter 9. The Wounded God: Messiah

P. 246-278

 

WEEK 9

Chapter 10. Allah Without Associates: Islam

P. 279-316

 

WEEK 10

Chapter 8. The God of Abraham: Israel

P. 212-245

Chapter 11. Freedom from the Gods: The Enlightenment

P. 317-348

 

After finishing this course you should write a personal response to the books you’ve read.

 

Author

Title  

I’ve completed ______% of the reading assignments.

 

1. Summarize and comment on the book’s content.

2. Evaluate the book for interest and usefulness to its intended audience. Respond to the author’s opinions. What do you agree or disagree with?

3. How did the book affect you? Were any previous ideas you had on the subject changed or reinforced due to this book.

4. Any questions you thought of as you read?

5. Would you recommend this book to others? Why?