727Assignment3Religion.docx

331RobertE.VanVoorstAnthologyofWorldScripturesWadsworthPublishing2016.pdf

Research papers: Each research paper is to be no less than 6 pages (1,500 words) and no more

than eight (8) pages in length (2,000 words), double-spaced, Times New Roman 12-point font, with

standard one-inch margins on a topic of your choice.

In the writing of your paper, you must make use of at least four (4) academic sources, in addition to

the Young and Van Voorst texts. While it is not mandatory to include Young in your analysis, it will

be helpful if you include scriptural examples from the Van Voorst text. Proper bibliographic and

footnoting format is likewise required. You may use either MLA, Chicago, or APA referencing style.

Please consult the style sheets available at Dafoe Library or browse the Internet.

Please choose one of the four essay topics listed below.

1. Compare the idea of a biocentric world-view in two indigenous traditions. How does this world-view contribute to ethical practices in each of these traditions? Compare and contrast any notable similarities and differences.

2. Compare and contrast the notion of ahimsa as it is understood in both the Buddhist and the Jain

traditions. *Note that in Buddhism, ahimsa is equal to the first precept “not to take life.” It is

commonly noted that in Jainism, ahimsa is taken to the extreme. Do you agree with this

statement? How does the Buddhist understanding of ahimsa differ from the Jain perspective,

and how do both constitute ethical behaviour for their given tradition?

3. Discuss the ethical significance of the four noble truths in the Buddhist tradition. In your

response, pay special attention to the eight-fold path.

4. In Hinduism, the four stages of life each consist of certain duties and requirements. Discuss how

these stages offer a guideline for ethical behaviour. *Note how these stages are only available to

the highest three classes in Hindu society. In your response, briefly comment on the “ethics” of

the exclusion of the lower classes.

5. With reference to either wu wei as it is understood in the Taoist tradition, or ren (jen) as it is

understood in Confucianism, discuss the ethical implications for the individual and for society according to these principles.