An introduction to Indian comparative religions
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- Start Date: 09 Aug 2025End Date: 09 Aug 2025Sat (Daytime): 10:30 - 17:30In PersonFull fee £79.00 Senior fee £63.00 Concession £51.00
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What is the course about?
All the Indian religions agree with the concept of a soul. However, Hinduism is theistic (believes in a powerful god) while Jainism stands with Buddhism as a non-theistic religion, but with different interpretations of a soul.
All brought new ideas to the world in terms of science:
• Jainism’s concept of multitudes of infinity and its prediction of microorganisms
• Buddhism and the scientific basis of consciousness and the impact of mind on body
• Hinduism’s introduction of the zero symbol, the decimal system and the invention of cataract surgery.
What will we cover?
- The history of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.
- The fundamental principles of the three religions, their similarity and philosophical differences.
- The connection of Indian religions and modern science.
- The current status of the religions and their practice and their relation to problems of the modern world.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- State the historical and cultural context for the Indian Religions.
- Explain the principles underpinning each religion.
- Reflect on the relation of religions to current world problems.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is designed for beginners or intermediate learners with little or no experience of the material. It will appeal to all those who would like to find out about Indian religions. It is anticipated that participants will come to the course with an open mind and be respectful to others of all faiths or none. A willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Online tutor presentations, virtual group exercises.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs or requirements.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
See City Lit's website for details of all religious studies courses currently available.
Ketan teaches courses in Business Skills and Indian Philosophy/History at CityLit. In his career Ketan has worked with over 30 large and complex organisations in helping them with Operational Excellence and Change Management. He is the author of the book ‘The Art of Transformational Change – a handbook for leaders and managers’, published in October 2015. Ketan is of indian hertitage and has visited many places of pilgrimage and history in India over the last 25 years. He has learnt Sanskrit to foundation level and studied several Indian sutras. He has delivered courses in Jain Philosophy for over 15 years.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
