University of Idaho - Buddhism: Philosophy 307

Summer Online
Registration Begins March 30th

Do you ever wonder why it is that the second pint of Ben and Jerry's Chubby Hubby does no better at overcoming a broken heart than the first? Well, Buddhism has answers to this and other profound and relevant questions in our lives.

In this six-week, online class, we will explore Buddhism as religion, philosophy, ethics and psychology, all the while focusing on it as a personal path which can help us overcome the "suffering," "un-ease," or "unsatisfactoriness" that arises in our lives simply due to the very fact of being a human being.

As a religion, Buddhism addresses the pains associated with being human and teaches us how to transcend forever the "suffering" we experience from our broken hearts and other human predicaments.

As a philosophy, Buddhism helps us to appreciate the true nature of what it is to be human and our relationship to the world. Armed with these truths about reality, we come to realize Buddhist ethics, how to live in the world in ways that bring about well being rather than "suffering."

Finally, Buddhism's central focus is the mind, and as a psychology, Buddhism not only teaches us why it is that we reach for Chubby Hubby in the first place; but it offers us skills so that we can overcome habits of mind that bring about "unease" and replace them with habits of mind that truly bring about personal and global well being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take this course?

Well, everyone of course!

If you are interested in Buddhism per se, psychology, philosophy of religion, religion, and/or personal growth, this course may be right for you. We will approach Buddhism from both doctrinal and practical perspectives, so whether you are interested in Buddhism purely from an academic perspective or as a path for personal growth, this course may be right for you. And then, if you would just like to cut down your ice cream bills, this too would be sufficient reason to sign up today!

What can I hope to learn from the course?

Six weeks is a very short time, but by the end of the course, past students were not only familiar with the main Buddhist doctrines, but many had gained some personal insight into how Buddhist practice might apply in one's life.

What will be expected of you?

First of all, a serious time-commitment is required. Over the six weeks, you will be busy reading, taking quizzes on those readings, writing short papers, interacting with other students and myself through online discussion postings, writing reviews on movies you will watch, and keeping a journal of the whole experience. You can expect to do something for the class five days a week minimum, and reading the other two. You are advised to use your time wisely.

Please don't sign up for the class if you don't think you can manage this or if you've planned a vacation while the class is taking place.

I assure you, the class is worth the work!

What kind of an internet connection do I need?

You will need to have a reliable connection (or to have access to a reliable connection, e.g., at a university or public library), as there will be specific and inflexible deadlines for assignments and discussion postings. There will be no content in the course that requires a high bandwidth, so the speed of your connection will purely be a question of your tolerance level.

Who's the instructor?

Sorry, I am the one on the left!

My name is Jay P. Feldman. I have an M.A. in Philosophy and have studied Buddhism academically for nine years and have been a practicing Buddhist for five. This is my sixth year teaching Buddhism at UI; and, although I have taught other classes online for a number of years, this is my second time teaching Buddhism online.

How will I interact with the other students and the professor?

For the most part, you will interact with other students and myselfvia a threaded-discussion online. I will have posted hours when I will be available online; and additionally, I am very good about responding to email. You can also call me by phone, or if you're local to Moscow, Idaho, schedule a time to stop in to my office.

Other Questions?