The Religions of Asia and the Pacific Islands program features presentations on Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, Islam, Taoism, Confucianism, folk religions and indigenous religious beliefs of Hawai'i and the Pacific Islands.

The following are lecture topics for the program. Please note that lectures are dependent on the availability of faculty, and additional topics may be available.

Students will gain a better understanding of Asian and Pacific religious traditions through our specially planned fieldtrips.

Lecture Topics

Hawaiian Beliefs This lecture introduces students to the major teachings, traditions and practices of ancient times to the present. South Asian Religious Traditions: 'Hinduism' Covers how the tradition was born, how it has become so diverse, and what makes it unique. Buddhism: Classical An introduction to Buddhism, its roots and a survey of its major forms and practices. Buddhism in East Asia Major features, trends and practices in the context of East Asian histories and cultures. Taoism Early Chinese religion, formative and developing years and the modern period, emphasizing religious Taoism. Chinese Religions Taoist, Confucian, Buddhist, socialist and folk beliefs and practices in their social and historical context. Confucianism Examination of "A Chinese World View" through an historical and cultural examination of Confucianism. Shinto Introduction to Shinto, analyzed in relation to social and cultural themes of major historical periods in Japan. New Religions in East Asia Cults and new religious movements in East Asia, examining types, causes and functions of these movements.

Visual Forms of Buddhism Examines how ideals of Buddhism were conveyed through images from India through southeastern and northeastern Asia. Mysticism East and West Examines mystic traditions of the West from desert monasticism to Renaissance mystics compared with those of South and East Asia. Funeral Rites in Japan Focuses on funerals in contemporary Japan, from an examination of the "Death Boom" to ideas of changing postmortem identities. Abortion and Buddhism in Japan Examines the debate over interpretations of fetal Buddhist rites performed in Japan. Christianity in East Asia Looks at the history of Christianity in Japan and Korea, with an examination of the differences in appeal and practices/beliefs in each country. Muslims in China Examines the Muslim population and minorities in China through an anthropological study of the Hui. Islam in Southeast Asia A look at the spread and appeal of Islam in Southeast Asia and discussion of contemporary issues. Women and Religion The roles of and attitudes toward women in major religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, Christianity, Islam and indigenous Hawaiian beliefs.