INST 2202 - The Responsible Self in Hinduism and Buddhism

Hours: 3
The intertwined issues of the nature of the self and the role of duty in human life from the standpoints of Hinduism and Buddhism. Attention directed first to Hinduism and its notions of the non-personal spiritual energy-essence that constitutes one’s core self and true identity, and of the importance of duty within the contexts of caste and karma, then shifting to Buddhism’s radical rethinking of the human being as an essentially empty “not-self” that is, despite its name, something very positive. Exploring the Buddhist concept of human responsibility with special attention to the crucial notions of compassion, loving-kindness, and giving. Thinking about our own views of self and responsibility in light of the Indian perspectives being explored, and encouraging adoption of any that may appear compatible and complementary.

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INST 2202 - The Responsible Self in Hinduism and Buddhism