After completing this course, the students will
• have knowledge about Buddhist modernity in different parts of the world
• be able to apply theoretical concepts to understand Buddhist modernity
• be capable to analyze and discuss how colonialism, urbanization, secularization, globalization, and individualization impact contemporary Buddhism
• have the ability to identify and critically study selected modern innovations and adaptations of Buddhism in a global context
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The course examines the multiple ways in which Buddhism has adapted to rapid economic, social, cultural and political transformations in the modern globalized world with a focus on the 19th and 20th century. Buddhism has shown a remarkable flexibility and an ability to co-exist with a variety of social structures typical of modern societies in rural areas as well as in highly complex Asian and Western urban centers. This class covers the impact of colonialism, urbanization, secularization, globalization, and individualization on Buddhist cultures and practices in Asia and the West. The course further explores the relation between Buddhism and gender, Buddhism and violence, Buddhism and science, as well as Buddhism’s popularity in the West.
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