Yale University
Introduction to Religions & Ecology
Yale University

Introduction to Religions & Ecology

Mary Evelyn Tucker
John Grim

Instructors: Mary Evelyn Tucker

5,518 already enrolled

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.9

(53 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 14 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.9

(53 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 14 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course

Details to know

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Assessments

6 quizzes

Taught in English

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There are 8 modules in this course

What's included

4 videos6 readings1 discussion prompt1 plugin

We explore the origins of the field of Religion and Ecology and the contemporary context of the Anthropocene, the geological era in which humans exert a dominant influence on climate and the environment. We also discuss the problems and promises of religions in addressing the ecological challenges of our time.

What's included

4 videos7 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt3 plugins

We first explore the nature of religions as symbolic systems. We then consider religious ecology and religious cosmology as ways in which humans envision their place within the Earth and the Cosmos. To conclude, we explore how religions can orient, ground, nurture, and transform humans in relationship with the planet.

What's included

5 videos8 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt

We explore views of nature in the West by first examining the transition from the Animism of the early Mediterranean world to the Monotheism of the later Abrahamic traditions. We then consider the legacies of Enlightenment rationalism and the ways in which the Romantic and Transcendentalist movements responded through their emphasis on emotion, intuition, and spirituality in the natural world. We conclude by exploring how modern science offers a new story for understanding nature within an expanding and evolving universe.

What's included

3 videos8 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt

We explore the emergence of the scientific field of ecology and the movement from holism to biometrics in understanding natural systems. We also consider the legacies of figures such as John Muir, Aldo Leopold, and Rachel Carson in shaping the American environmental movement.

What's included

8 videos17 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt2 plugins

We explore the global emergence of religious ecological engagement in recent decades. We then focus on religiously-inspired efforts to protect forests before hearing from different voices on the climate emergency.

What's included

4 videos16 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt4 plugins

We examine how interreligious dialogue and environmental movements gave rise to the Earth Charter, the first comprehensive global ethic integrating ecology, justice, and peace. We then consider the emergence of the environmental justice movement and its implications for marginalized communities around the world. This includes an exploration of the Ecojustice Hub on the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology. To conclude, we consider our shared challenges ahead and the prospect of creating ecological cultures.

What's included

3 videos14 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt5 plugins

What's included

1 video1 reading

Instructors

Instructor ratings
4.7 (23 ratings)
Mary Evelyn Tucker
Yale University
13 Courses45,836 learners
John Grim
Yale University
13 Courses45,836 learners

Offered by

Yale University

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4.9

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Reviewed on Jan 8, 2023

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