RELST-303 Buddhism, Business and State
Buddhism is often presented as a rational and spiritual philosophy that does not promote either sociopolitical engagements or ritual practices. Questioning this protestant/text-based understanding of Buddhism, this course will examine Buddhist engagements with trade and mercantile communities, state and imperial powers, and ritual and devotional practices in premodern India. Learning about the everyday life of Buddhist monasteries offers insights into today’s connections between religious, economic, and government life.
Seminar (12)
Credits
1
Offered
Spring