Course Description:

PHIL250E or Introduction to World Religions is a 200-level course that covers several world religions, their belief systems, and their structure. This class requires that students learn about different world views through the rigorous study of different religions from across the globe. From Jainism to Hinduism, this course covers all of the major religions still practiced today. 

The Introduction to World Religions course taught at Old Dominion University allowed me to gain a better understanding of the world around me and the different beliefs of those who live in it. From Jain to Hindusim, this course covers the major religions of the world and made me reflect on their different belief systems, traditions, and customs. Studying religions outside of my own allowed me to gain perspective on the beliefs of others, and their different traditions. For example, in the Jain religion followers do their very best to cause harm to no creatures. This goes as far as to sweep the floor before taking steps to ensure they do not accidentally step on small bugs or animals. They even practice a vegetarian diet to avoid consuming the flesh of animals! Prior to this course I had never heard of this religion and had a very limited worldview. Now, however, I have a greater appreciation of all religions and curiosity and willingness to learn about different world views and beliefs. 


A specific assignment that caused me to reflect on my own beliefs not only as a catholic but as a female was the autobiography assignment. We were required to read an autobiography of a specified religious leader and write a report on it. I was assigned Dorothy Day and her autobiography: The Long Loneliness. In this assignment, I read of Dorothy Day’s journey as a born-again catholic and feminist and was in awe of her persistence despite her unfortunate circumstances. I think it is very important to seek to understand religious leaders and activists and know how they came into that position in the first place. It is also important to reflect on their status and question their decisions when appropriate

 

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