Analyzes the use of symbols, describes different types of symbolic activity, and observes how symbols play a key role in all human cultural activity, including religion.The class also explores Civil Religion, a form of myth that validates the social order. Key questions are posed about American myths, the "liturgical cycle" of American holidays, and other related issues.
This series provides a comprehensive look at the nature and function of the religions and secular beliefs that comprise today’s major "world views". Established beliefs covered in the telecourse include Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Also included are belief systems outside the scope of mainstream religious institutions, such as "New Age" religion, neo-paganism, and "Civil Religion". These world views are explored in-depth using six dimensions of study: mythical, experiential, doctrinal, ritual, ethical and social. Viewers receive an introduction to diverse belief systems and gain a balanced perspective on how differing belief systems affect us on a global scale and in our own backyards.
