Our Mission - Dharma Realm Buddhist University
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“Fifth is the incense of liberated knowledge and understanding: this is just your own mind unaffected by anything good or bad, neither sinking into emptiness nor clinging to meditative stillness. Study extensively, be learned and well read; recognize your original mind and master the Buddhas’ teachings. Graciously welcome and get along with all creatures; have no notion of ‘self ’ and ‘other.’ Directly reach Bodhi, your unchanging true nature—this is called ‘the incense of liberated knowledge and understanding.’ ” —Dharma Jewel Platform Sūtra of the Sixth Patriarch Our Mission Dharma Realm Buddhist University is a community dedicated to liberal education in the broad Buddhist tradition—a tradition characterized by knowledge in the arts and sciences, self–cultivation, and the pursuit of wisdom. Its pedagogical aim is thus twofold: to convey knowledge and to activate an intrinsic wisdom possessed by all individuals. Developing this inherent capacity requires an orientation toward learning that is dialogical, interactive, probing, and deeply self-reflective. Such education makes one free in the deepest sense and opens the opportunity to pursue the highest goals of human existence.
Academic Calendar 2020–2021 FALL 2020 July 24 Last Day to Request Course Audit (For Fall 2020) August 3–7 New Student Orientation August 6 Fall Enrollment and Registration (For New Students Only) August 7 Convocation August 10 Fall Semester Begins September 7 Labor Day (TBA) September 18 Last Day to Request Spring 2020 Grade Change October 23 Last Day to Petition to Return From Leave of Absence in Spring 2021 November 2 Senior Essay Proposal Due by 5pm November 6 Last Day to Withdraw with a “W” November 6 Last Day to Request Leave of Absence for Fall 2020 November 13 Returning Students are Registered for Spring 2021 Core Curriculum November 20 Fall Instruction Ends November 26–27 Thanksgiving November 30 – December 4 Fall Student Conferences December 4 Last Day to Petition for Incomplete Grade December 4 Last Day to Register for Language Course (For Spring 2021) December 4 End of Fall Semester December 7 – January 17, 2021 Winter Break December 18 Last Day to Submit Fall Semester Grades January 4 Last Day to Turn in Work for Incomplete Grade (For Fall 2020) January 5 Last Day to Request Course Audit (For Spring 2021) SPRING 2021 Please visit https://www.drbu.edu/registrar/academic-calendar for the most up-to-date academic calendar.
Table of Contents LIBERAL EDUCATION AT DRBU 7 Introduction 8 Toward a Classics Curriculum 9 Learning Through Shared Inquiry 10 Contemplative Exercises Immersion BACHELOR OF ARTS IN LIBERAL ARTS 11 Curriculum 13 Buddhist Classics 15 Western Classics 19 Indian Classics 21 Chinese Classics 23 Rhetoric and Writing 24 Language 26 Mathematics 27 Natural Science 29 Music 30 BA Essays and Examinations 31 Academic Standing for BA Students MASTER OF ARTS IN BUDDHIST CLASSICS 33 Curriculum 41 MA Essays and Examinations 41 Academic Standing for MA Students 42 THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY ADMISSIONS 43 Bachelor of Arts 44 Master of Arts 45 Tuition and Fees 46 Financial Aid 47 International Students ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PRACTICES 48 DRBU Educational Goals 50 Statement of Academic Freedom 50 Courses 50 Attendance Policy 51 Registering for Courses 51 Withdrawing from a Course 52 Refund Policy DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog 3
52 Repeating Courses 52 Part-Time Study 53 Auditing 53 Essays and Examinations 53 Requirements for BA in Liberals Arts 53 BA Focus Strand Essays 53 Senior Essay and Oral Examinations 54 Requirements for MA in Buddhist Classics 54 MA Focus Strand Essays 54 Evaluating Academic Performance 54 Student Conferences 55 Credit Hours 55 Grade Reports 57 Incomplete Grades 57 Experiential Learning Credits 57 Transfer Credits 57 Retention of Student Records 57 Transcripts & Degree Certificate 58 Academic Probation 58 Dismissal for Academic Reasons 58 Satisfactory Progress and Financial Aid 59 Leave of Absence, Withdrawal and Readmission 59 Leave of Absence 59 Withdrawal from the University 60 Readmission 60 Academic Integrity 61 Cohort Mentors 61 Symposium 61 Academic Resource Center 61 Instructional Services 61 Career Services 61 Services for Students with Disabilities 62 Computer Services CAMPUS LIFE 63 Welcome to the DRBU Campus 63 A Community of Learning 64 A Community of Service 64 Environmental Responsibility 64 Office of Campus Life 65 Residential Life 65 Dining Services 65 Service Scholarship 65 Student Activities 66 Health Services 66 Spiritual Life 4 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES 67 Guidelines for Students 67 Student Code of Conduct 68 Housing Guidelines 68 Community Consideration 69 Grounds for Dismissal 70 Conduct Process 70 Policy on Harassment 71 Notice of Non-Discrimination 71 Grievance Procedure 73 Health and Safety Information 73 Campus Security 73 Health Hazards 73 Asbestos 74 Black Widows 74 Poison Oak 74 Disaster and Emergency Procedures 74 Earthquakes 75 Fires 75 Power Outages 75 Policy on Digital Devices in the Classroom 75 Policy on Compliance with Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) 77 FACULTY AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPENDICES 81 Directions and Maps 84 Useful University Contact Information 84 Emergency Numbers 85 Acknowledgments 85 Accreditation 86 Regulatory Information DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog 5
“Education is without beginning or end. There is not a single location that is not a place of learning, and there is not a single moment that is not a time for learning.” —Venerable Master Hsüan Hua, Founder of DRBU
Liberal Education at DRBU providing them with the tools to gain self-knowledge. INTRODUCTION This in turn is based on the belief that students Dharma Realm Buddhist University, founded in possess a latent capacity for understanding and that 1976, is a small private school dedicated to liberal education serves as a catalyst that helps precipitate education in the broad Buddhist tradition—a and release knowledge into active awareness. tradition characterized by knowledge in the arts Developing this inherent capacity requires an and sciences, self-cultivation, and the pursuit of orientation toward learning that is dialogical, wisdom. DRBU aims at educating the whole person interactive, probing, and deeply self-reflective. and thus strives to nurture individuals who see The foundational culture of the liberal arts instills learning as a lifelong endeavor in the pursuit of a breadth of learning that fosters sharp analysis, knowledge, self-understanding, and the creative sound judgment, and informed choices—essential and beneficial application of that learning to every qualities for becoming active, reflective, and sphere of life. responsible citizens of the world. It expands the When universities were first created, they were mind, stirs the heart, and inspires the soul. While meant to embrace and portray an endless and vast grounded in classical ideas, a liberal education vision, an expanse that encompasses humanity and fosters students who are at the same time acutely stretches throughout the universe. That is why a alive to and engaged with modern life. They bring “university” is so named. The Buddhist phrasing a nimble responsiveness to shifting possibilities in for this notion of the universe is Dharma Realm, an ever-changing and increasingly complex world. while the word buddha simply means “awakening.” They are confident, but not rigid, and have the Hence, the name Dharma Realm Buddhist University flexibility to constantly assess new and evolving expresses an Eastern rendering of the same idea: conditions, both inside and outside. Accordingly, the university as a place devoted to understanding they can reconsider, adjust, alter, or even abandon ourselves, the nature of the wider universe and its their course or stance. workings, and our place in it. Liberally educated persons are able to appreciate the unifying and complementary nature of the DRBU is guided and informed by enduring sciences, arts, and humanities across disciplines hallmarks of a liberal arts education from both and cultures. They can effectively integrate the East and West, which holds self-knowledge rooted intellectual, ethical, personal, and professional in virtue as its basis, insight and goodness as its dimensions of their lives into a meaningful whole. outcomes, and benefiting others as its application. This fundamental experience opens them to a The university’s pedagogical aim is thus two-fold: life of beauty, curiosity, accomplishment, and to convey knowledge and to activate an intrinsic continuing wonder. While the field of knowledge wisdom possessed by all individuals. Such learning over time has grown, the need for people to goes to the heart of a liberal education. It makes one ground themselves in the abiding sources of free in the deepest sense, as it is a liberation born human values and to keep an open mind at the of disciplined self-mastery rather than from desires same time remains unchanged—and is perhaps unrestrained, and it opens up the opportunity to more urgent than ever. Those capable of mastering pursue the highest goals of human existence. these two seemingly opposite approaches are the At its best, liberal education properly conducted rare individuals who bravely engage in the world does not indoctrinate, but rather disentangles. It is and benefit humanity no matter what profession carried out not so much by filling students’ minds they choose to practice. It is these individuals with a prescribed body of knowledge and beliefs as by whom DRBU seeks to nurture. Liberal Education at DRBU 7
TOWARD A These works do not so much impart “Truth” as inspire a pursuit of truth—and convey the CLASSICS CURRICULUM methods, pitfalls, and excitement of that search. For these reasons, at DRBU deep engagement with They also remind us that genuine learning begins primary texts from both East and West and an with curiosity and is sustained by questions. integrated approach to learning constitute the Searching for answers often entails doubt and core curriculum. The seminal and abiding works of a healthy unsettledness. While the writers may both provide a solid foundation for understanding widely differ in views and beliefs, they share a the ideas, values, and ethos that govern common stance: earnestness for serious probing contemporary life and shape the interconnected and an uncommon quest for authenticity. world in which we live. What have come to be known as the “classics” represent humanity’s rich To achieve the broad sweep of a liberal arts legacy of thought, debate, and insight into the education informed by traditions both East abiding issues that confront humankind. and West, DRBU extends the Western classics legacy to include wisdom traditions of Asia. We The seminal texts of both Eastern and Western view these two approaches as complementary traditions continue to shed light on the persisting and mutually compatible, not as contradictory inquiries, challenges, and possibilities of opposites. Both aim at liberation and have at their human existence. They come embedded with base insights into human nature, the workings sophisticated methods of deep questioning, of causality, and the complex interconnections testing, and affirming. The highest inspirations between the individual, social, and natural and cautionary limitations of the human condition dimensions of existence. Together they offer find their clearest and most thoughtful expression multiple perspectives on the human condition in these enduring works. Because they are both in all its complexity, potential, nuance, and timeless and timely, when engaged deeply through diversity. close reading, genuine discourse, and embodiment, they tap into deeper sources that stimulate fresh When their constitutive works are read deeply and insights into our contemporary problems and into studied slowly, they tell us not only who we were, ourselves. Far from being outdated or impractical, but provide fresh insights into who we are and they are a bedrock that can provide students might become. They retain a power to stimulate us with a strong foundation for lifelong learning, by calling our attention both to abiding patterns discovery, and leadership in any field or specialty. and to new possibilities. We maintain that this potential for insight and meaning is not the The classical sources that form the heart of a limited domain of one tradition. Rather it belongs liberal education are neither homogeneous and pertains to any sincere and authentic body nor monolithic. They encompass a diversity of of thought that still retains its liveliness and approaches and experiences. They cover a vast purchase over centuries and millennia. expanse of knowledge, questions, and ways of knowing that bridge past and present and that prepare students to engage the crucial issues of At DRBU, classical texts are studied in integrated the day and to thrive in a changing world. curricula that weave together multiple curricular strands. DRBU’s BA and MA programs are “People wish to be settled; only as far as they integrated in that their curricular strands are unsettled is there any hope for them.” are not stand-alone modules each advancing —Ralph Waldo Emerson a compartmentalized area of study, but are intertwined threads (or ‘strands’) of a tightly 8 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
woven fabric that as a whole result in a unified and Nor can teachers presume to be final authorities. requisite set of knowledge and intellectual skills. In this system of learning, teachers at best help Therefore, each of DRBU’s programs has an all- clarify the issues, demonstrate the methods, required and sequentially-built curriculum. These serve as sounding boards and mirrors that reflect, characteristics invite students and professors and thereby indirectly facilitate the student’s to reference all other parts of the curriculum own understanding. As faculty, they eschew the pertinent to discussions and extend the circle of more common role to “profess,” to interject their their conversations beyond the classroom into expertise, however well-intentioned. Instead, other parts of their lives at DRBU. they allow for students to wonder, even to be a bit bewildered, as they struggle to figure things out Overall, an integrated curriculum centered on for themselves. classical sources continues to offer students one of the best vehicles for stimulating the Casting the teacher as a guide rather than a qualities of intellect and character that we director of the students’ learning process reflects consider to be hallmarks of an educated person. an ancient pedigree both East and West. Here, Such individuals bring a probing examination good teaching does not tell the students what they to the present informed by a sense of the past. need to have or know, but helps them explore They are attentive to workings of causality what it is that’s worth wanting, and important, to and alert to connections among seemingly know. The primary function of the teaching faculty separate phenomena. Having explored diverse and the university itself, then, is to encourage and perspectives and insights into human nature, assist students in the bittersweet task of answering they are at ease in the wider world and able to these important questions for themselves. This is entertain ideas and outlooks other than their what is meant by “self-cultivation.” own. They exhibit a capacity for self-reflection In other words, the individual student, each in that refines their sense of ethical responsibility. his or her own way, needs to question and be The breadth of a liberal arts curriculum is questioned. Neither the text, nor the teacher, purposeful as it strives to develop a well-rounded nor the student alone can presume to be “the person whose appreciation of the natural world measure of all things.” All three mutually sound is enhanced by knowledge of science and the arts and respond. All need to be actively present, yet and who finds pleasure in art, music, and the each must challenge and be challenged. The texts aesthetic richness of life. in conjunction with the curious student and gently prodding teacher form a triangle of constructive LEARNING THROUGH tension, a delicate balance of “authorities” that SHARED INQUIRY together draw out latent knowledge into active awareness. While a direct encounter with primary texts is essential for achieving these desired outcomes, A dialectical discussion-driven instruction method it is not in itself sufficient. Students’ dialogue is designed to avoid predigested, passive learning, with the demanding classical works can be one- where the student is primarily concerned with sided because the authors cannot furnish further what he or she “needs to know for the test.” clarification and arguments about what they Instead, it is devised to stimulate thought, foster wrote. Moreover, viewing students themselves new ideas and insights, and create a living dialogue as “authorities” begs the question raised by both between the students and the texts. Such an traditions: How does one know? What is required open give and take allows students to reanimate to truly “know thyself ”? classical texts and creatively bring them into a Liberal Education at DRBU 9
modern context. It is thus both an exercise in CONTEMPLATIVE EXERCISES intellectual freedom as well as a test to the claim that these works resonate beyond borders of time IMMERSION and place. “Opening the mind; touching the spirit” To summarize, the pedagogical goals—the Educating the whole person entails both rationale for the texts, curricular strands, writing, formal study and self-discovery, shared inquiry discussion, supplementary lectures, laboratory and self-understanding. The liberal arts are materials, contemplative exercises, and language meant to instruct and inspire. Descriptions tutorials—all center on arriving at one outcome: and prescriptions for such self-cultivation are the students’ knowing for and through themselves. found across classical texts. Whether explicitly The text, teacher, and student form a triangular or implicitly, these diverse authors invite and relationship of inquiry where authority rests with encourage the reader to seriously consider and not one exclusively but through all in concert, know for themselves what it means to be fully even at times in tension. This pedagogy depends human—intellectually, socially, aesthetically, a great deal on the initiative and activity of the emotionally, and spiritually. So, along with our students for learning. With ardent and engaged regular academic offerings, DRBU sets aside students, the classroom atmosphere becomes time each semester exclusively devoted to catalytic, not didactic; teaching aims at drawing contemplative study and practice. out rather than pouring in. During this time, students can unplug from their The ultimate goal of such inquiry is to develop ordinary routines to directly experience a variety men and women who can stand on their own. By of disciplined forms of self-reflection, centering directly wrestling with the texts and, by extension, practices, and more intuitive modes of knowing—all their own thoughts, feelings, and tendencies, they aimed at increasing a subtler awareness within and acquire a hard-won confidence and clarity that without: of oneself, and one’s place in the larger serve as a foundation for engaging life to its fullest. world. Classes and non-essential service scholar- Amid all the conflicting desires and complex issues ships are suspended so that students can get the they will encounter, such individuals can discern, most out of this important “laboratory” experience. decide, and act upon what is true to themselves Taken together the contemplative program—quiet and responsible to others. reflection, training in meditation, mind-body inte- gration, and retreat-like immersions—exists to more In this way, the goal of a liberally educated person fully delve into what it means to “know thyself.” is exercised and exemplified in vivo, all along and throughout their learning experience. We adhere With guidance from classical texts and contem- to the dictum “as you hope to arrive, so proceed.” porary practitioners, the contemplative sessions If the goal is responsible, thoughtful, and creative offer DRBU students a chance and space to “look citizens, then in their formative experience, within”—to access and attend to their own hearts students must learn how to take responsibility and minds, and in so doing compass a profound free- for their own development at every turn. The dom to pursue the highest goals of human existence. Buddhist view of a liberated and enlightened This hands-on experiential learning can also open individual and the Western view of a liberally up fresh insights into what it means to be human, educated and responsible person clearly align on the workings of causality, and inspire new ways of this goal. In both views, the individual is radically imagining and engaging in the interconnected world free and radically responsible. of ourselves, others, and the natural environment. 10 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts an original source can often trigger a reexamination CURRICULUM of assumptions and presuppositions—personal and The University offers an integrated curriculum cultural—about human nature and our place in the that weaves together ten distinct strands: world. A focus on classical texts can thus provide a Buddhist Classics, Western Classics, Indian foundation for a lifelong pursuit of learning, ever- Classics, Chinese Classics, Language, Mathematics, deepening inquiry, and self-reflection. Natural Science, Rhetoric and Writing, Music, Language learning, especially in the source and Capstone. The core curriculum consists of languages of primary texts, supports deeper primary texts—Buddhist, Western, Indian, and appreciation for and closer interpretation of Chinese Classics—studied and discussed in a pro- original meanings. Mathematics, a symbolic seminar setting, conducted in the spirit of shared language for reading and describing the natural interpretive inquiry. Through a close reading of world, forms a necessary complement to a deeper primary classics, students are able to enter into understanding of Natural Science, both as a the dynamic dialogues from which many of these universal discipline of empirical inquiry and a texts emerged. They engage the material more particular way of knowing. Music provides access intimately, as if sitting as participant-observers in to aesthetic sensibility, yet another essential discourses that stimulated critical inquiry and self- language through which ideas, insights, purpose, reflection then and reanimate it now. and values are discovered and conveyed. The lively and trenchant quality of a classic text Regardless of the subject matter, all classes aim connects students not only to the “voice” and to encourage and guide students in their efforts energy of the author, but often also invigorates to activate their inherent wisdom and capacity them to reexamine their own capacities, goals, for direct and personal understanding. To this questions, and concerns. The direct encounter with end, students and faculty interact closely as they Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 11
mutually explore through dialogue and discourse. informed discussion on vital issues of our time, Discussion is intended to create a lively yet and form considered opinions on emerging trends respectful atmosphere in which to clarify, present, in the fields of science, technology, education, and exchange, and challenge ideas. Such thoughtful public policy. Overall, they will be ready to play a exchange is enhanced by training in the art of meaningful role in society and to enjoy a life that thinking, writing, and speaking effectively—the is purposeful, productive, and humane. aim of the Rhetoric and Writing strand. Course Requirements Graduates of this program acquire a breadth of The undergraduate program consists of 120 knowledge, intellectual skills, habits of mind, and semester units, with courses from ten strands. The ethical sensibilities that are essential to success following table illustrates the number of semester in almost any endeavor. They are equipped to units required from each strand over four years. be active, thoughtful, and caring citizens of the larger world and smaller communities to which The course code is italicized in the table below. they belong. They might enrich their lives with Each course is designated by a 4-letter program appreciation of one or more of the arts, engage in code, followed by a 3-digit course code. The LIBA YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 UNITS/ STRAND Fall Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring STRAND Buddhist LIBA 111 LIBA 211 LIBA 311 LIBA 411 16 units Classics 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units Western LIBA 121 LIBA 221 LIBA 321 LIBA 421 16 units Classics 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units Indian LIBA 231 LIBA 232 LIBA 431 12 units Classics 4 units 4 units 4 units Chinese LIBA 131 LIBA 132 LIBA 331 12 units Classics 4 units 4 units 4 units Rhetoric and LIBA 141 LIBA 142 LIBA 441 LIBA 442 10 units Writing 3 units 3 units 1 units 3 units Language LIBA 151 LIBA 152 LIBA 251 LIBA 252 LIBA 351 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units or or or or or 20 units* LIBA 161 LIBA 162 LIBA 261 LIBA 262 LIBA 361 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units 4 units Mathematics LIBA 271 LIBA 272 LIBA 371 12 units 4 units 4 units 4 units Natural LIBA 372 LIBA 373 LIBA 471 12 units Science 4 units 4 units 4 units Music LIBA 381 LIBA 481 6 units 3 unit 3 unit Capstone LIBA 491 LIBA 492 4 units 2 units 2 units UNITS/ 15 units 15 units 16 units 16 units 16 units 15 units 15 units 12 units 120 units SEMESTER *Students have the option to choose either Sanskrit and/or Classical Chinese to fulfill 20 units of Language. 12 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
program code indicates courses offered in the critical discipline of inquiry—one characterized by Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts program. The first rigorous probing, radical questioning, and careful digit of the 3-digit course code indicates the year analysis of both the subject and object of study. in which the course is taken, the second digit This integration of the personal and philosophical indicates the strand to which the course belongs, seeks to harness knowledge with virtue and to and the third digit indicates the sequence in which guide action with insight. the course is taken. In the Buddhist Classics strand, the emphasis is Buddhist Classics placed on studying Buddhism not merely as an On the eve of his passing, the Buddha instructed historical event, but as a living philosophy and his students to take as their next “teacher” not an embodied discipline. Students learn about, from, individual, but “the teachings”—the philosophy and through the texts. This “laboratory” approach and practices leading to self-knowledge and a clear allows students to test theoretical soundness understanding of the nature of reality. This vast with an experiential index and to appreciate the body of knowledge, initially passed along in an Buddhist way from a vantage point within, rather oral tradition, gradually coalesced into a collection than at a sterile remove from that tradition. of works known as the Dharma and Vinaya—the Buddhist classics. Freshman Year (LIBA 111) The freshman year readings focus on the The use of the two terms Dharma and Vinaya philosophical and particular phenomenological rather than the single term philosophy highlights origins of the Buddha’s teachings. Despite their the central defining feature of these works: the antiquity, these teachings seem to retain a lively dynamic fusion of theory and praxis. Because the relevance in modern times and across cultures. “study of” and “doing of” philosophy mutually Students consider and explore the existential respond, the Buddhist classics were not intended concerns and conditions that prompted the merely as abstract doctrinal expositions of ready- Buddha’s own spiritual journey. The first year’s made knowledge. Rather, they were meant to both themes thus center on basic questions and issues inform and form, to explain and engage. Overall, concerning the individual living the examined life: they aim to stimulate a dialogue with oneself that identity, belonging, and alienation; the quest for encompasses the intellect, imagination, sensibility, knowledge and certainty in a contingent universe; and will; together this dialogue is known as “self- doubt, meaning, and purpose; mortality and its cultivation.” implications; conditioned existence; inspirations for and alternatives to the spiritual path; and liberation, self-determination, and potentials for freedom. The Buddha once compared these teachings in self-cultivation to a vast ocean: “Just as the great ocean has one taste, the taste of salt, so also this The year begins with the study of sacred texts Dharma and Vinaya has one taste, the taste of from the Pāli canon, including selections from the liberation.” The texts thus pose questions rather five Nikāyas, and transitions into Mahāyāna texts than dictate answers. How does each individual such as the Sixth Patriarch Sūtra, the Vimalakīrti construct a world of meaning, and how can that Sūtra, and The Sutra in Forty-two Sections. world be transformed and deepened into a site of liberation? The freeing up and broadening of the Sophomore Year (LIBA 211) human spirit to pursue such questions was the In the sophomore year, the readings shift original intent of the Buddhist classics and the students’ field of inquiry from the personal to the continuing purpose for studying them now. social. They move from the solitary individual The texts come embedded with a systematic and dimension to probe into those larger patterns, Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 13
shared structures, and determining factors that learning experience. Buddhist texts were designed shape the more universal human condition. The and used both to convey knowledge and guide texts highlight recurring patterns and universal practice. As such they can serve as laboratory guides elements that appear common to all humanity and for deepening understanding and appreciation of that in large measure frame our lives. The core the material. This laboratory approach activates themes and topics transition from the personal and engages the key modes of learning—cognitive, existential questions to the Buddha’s description of experiential, abstract, kinesthetic—into an deeply ingrained tendencies common to all living integrated experience. Students are invited to beings, habituation, the range and variety of paths investigate the nature of compassion, its role in of existence along this continuum, the primacy of spiritual practice, and its connection with insight, the “mind” and intentionality, the mechanism of and the role of precepts and spiritual practice. causality that underlies all phenomena, nonduality and its implications, and the ideas of innate Readings include the Śūraṅgama Sūtra, biographies potential or inherent capacity for wisdom and and autobiographies of eminent Buddhist prac- compassion shared by all living beings. titioners, Awakening of Faith in the Mahāyāna, and Nāgārjuna’s Bodhisaṃbhāra Śāstra (The Treatise on Key texts include the Lotus Sūtra, the Longer the Provisions for Enlightenment). Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra (Infinite Life Sūtra), selected passages from the Avataṃsaka Sūtra, the Essay on Senior Year (LIBA 411) the Resolve for Bodhi, the Heart Sūtra, the Vajra Sūtra, The themes of the final year explore the the Shastra on the Door to Understanding a Hundred pinnacle, or more comprehensive and inclusive Dharmas, and Ārya Nāgārjuna’s Letter to a Friend. philosophy, of Buddhism: the dynamic and complex interconnectivity and interdependence Junior Year (LIBA 311) of noumena and phenomena. Students read texts In the junior year, students address the pragmatic that describe the overarching “oneness” of the and applied aspects woven in and throughout nature of reality (the Dharma-realm) as well as the the texts. The focus turns from the descriptive mentality and methods to “enter” or comprehend to the prescriptive to examine the methods— it. Central to this broad embrace is the moral, intellectual, aesthetic, contemplative, paradigmatic Bodhisattva ideal—an individual who and behavioral—outlined in the texts for “doing is engaged in the world but not of the world, who philosophy” in the Buddhist tradition. Students liberates him- or herself while liberating others, explore the particular ways in which theory and and whose defining qualities are compassion, praxis interact to allow for a more direct and total kindness, joy, and equanimity. BUDDHIST CLASSICS SAMPLE READING LIST Dīgha Nikāya The Sūtra in Forty-two Sections Vasubandhu, Shastra on the Door Majjhima Nikāya Śūraṅgama Sūtra to Understanding a Hundred Saṃyutta Nikāya Huineng, Sixth Patriarch Sūtra Dharmas Aṅguttara Nikāya Longer Sukhāvatīvyūha Sūtra Nāgārjuna, Bodhisaṃbhāra Śāstra, Khuddaka Nikāya Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra Letter to a Friend Visuddhimagga Avataṃsaka Sūtra Biographies of great Buddhist Vimalakīrti Sūtra Aśvaghoṣa, Awakening of Faith in monastic practitioners Heart Sūtra the Mahāyāna Vajra Sūtra Xingan, Essay on the Resolve for Lotus Sūtra Bodhi 14 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
Students are encouraged to consider their understand the frames of reference and paradigms education not as an end, but as the first step of that shape their interpretive faculties. They are a lifelong journey of learning, critical inquiry, also better equipped to understand their own cultivation of their character and mind, and reactions to circumstances at play: an interplay of service to society. This returns to and highlights the personal, natural, and social worlds. the institution’s vision: a liberal education is learning that integrates all aspects of life. It is The Western Classics curriculum provides characterized by a continuous sense of wonder; students with interdisciplinary perspectives on an ability to weigh, reflect, and wisely act even the important questions that have long intrigued when faced with ambiguity; and a spirit that looks human beings: What is meaningful about being forward to a life of limitless possibilities. human? What does it mean to live a meaningful life? How we can learn to construct meaning for The focal texts of the fourth year are the ourselves in this modern age? Students become Avataṃsaka Sūtra and the Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra. acquainted with the works of great authors and The scope and aim of both are expansive and thinkers who have grappled with these vital holistic. They stress an engaged liberation that questions. By integrating literature, philosophy, sees a good life as the total interpenetration of religion, economics, and politics, the curriculum is learning and action, self with others, and the designed to enable students to develop analytical human and natural world. and expressive skills; their ability to read, write, and think clearly; and cultivate an appreciation of the original sources and their role in shaping Western Classics modern societies. The Western traditions are at the heart of many important political, economic, and social The major focus of the Western Classics strand is to transformations that have helped create the take the student through a personal encounter with modern world. To understand these important seminal thinkers through the use of primary texts influences is indispensible to DRBU’s liberal as sources of inquiry and insight. From a Western arts education. Exposure to Western philosophy perspective, this means establishing grounds of and literature aims to empower the student to authority for truth and knowledge. The pursuit of Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 15
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truth in the West is one of the most emphasized foci in this tradition. Understanding the development of knowledge over time, with philosophers and thinkers in dialogue with each other and building on the foundations that precede them, aims to enable the student to identify the dialectical nature and evolution of Western thought. Central to DRBU’s education is the idea that there are a multitude of approaches to the foundational questions that contribute to a liberally educated person. Western approaches to these questions generally examine ideas such as freedom, responsibility, and rationality. These have certain similarities with Eastern and Buddhist approaches yet differ from both in important respects. In offering the Western Classics strand, DRBU implications of Western philosophy. Such exposure expects each student to have an understanding is crucial to an understanding of the self in the of some of the ways in which Western thinkers current Western culture and context and also have effectively approached these issues so that enables the student to translate and interpret the the student will be able to not only invoke these Eastern traditions through the lenses of Western ideas in their own lives, but also in conversation interpretive constructs. This background introduces with Eastern ways of thought. Just as there is an the student to a diversity of approaches. This expectation that students will have a solid grasp diversity provides the student with an array of of the methodologies and approaches in Buddhist creative alternatives, both personally and socially, and Eastern texts, so the student will have a to face what it means to be part of the modern clear understanding of the dominant themes and world in all its complexity. methodologies that emerge from Western sources. Freshman Year (LIBA 121) The differences between these approaches are Freshman semester of the Western Classics important to identify and explore. These include strand is devoted to a study of ancient philosophy differing characterizations of human nature, and literature. The year begins with the Epic of society, causality, freedom, responsibility, and our Gilgamesh. The focus then turns to Homer’s Odyssey, relationship to nature and nonhuman life. While which is considered among the most fundamental the Buddhist, Indian, and Chinese Classics strands works of literature in the Western tradition. provide the student with invaluable approaches to Students read plays by Aeschylus and Sophocles, understanding notions such as freedom, causality, followed by excerpts from the Hebrew Bible. The and theories of social interconnectedness, the focus shifts to careful reading of Plato and Aristotle, Western philosophical tradition lays down equally whose work forms the foundation of year one. solid foundations and frameworks in which to analyze and express many facets of modern life. Sophomore Year (LIBA 221) Sophomore semester focuses on significant The Western strand is indispensable to DRBU’s philosophical and religious literature, including mission, which is to equip the student with all the ancient Stoics, the New Testament, and the the necessary skills for understanding and coping works of Plotinus, Augustine, St. Anselm, Aquinas, with life in the emerging modern world. Central and Maimonides. Students also read principal to this goal is an understanding of the roots and contributors to Western literature, including Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 17
Nietzsche, and Spinoza. Equal attention is given to foundation developments in modern ethical theory, with its utilitarianism (embodied by the works of Bentham and Mill), and Kantian ethics. The newly emerging economic theory (along with its critics) is explored through the works of Smith and Marx. Literature focuses on the works of Austen, Eliot, Kafka, Milton, Molière, Racine, Shelley, Thoreau, Twain, and Voltaire. The poetry of Baudelaire, Poe, Whitman, and Wordsworth is studied, analyzed, and interpreted. Art of the period introduces the aesthetic dimension as both a reflection of and lens into the larger currents of thought. Virgil, Dante, Chaucer, Rabelais, Cervantes, and Montaigne. Special attention is given to the works Senior Year (LIBA 421) of Shakespeare. Political theory is examined Senior semester turns to the major figures of the through the works of Hobbes, Machiavelli, modern and late-modern Western intellectual and Rousseau. The revolutionary period of the tradition. The semester begins with the Renaissance is explored through a combined formative works of Freud, Jung, Hegel, Heidegger, emphasis on literature, poetry, and art. Sophomore Husserl, Kierkegaard, de Beauvoir, Sartre, and students turn to increasingly humanistic questions. Wittgenstein. The evolving economic models and Different ways to understand the individual, social, their implications are highlighted with the works and natural dimensions of life are a major focus of Friedman and Keynes. Modern ethical theory of inquiry and discussion. The curriculum for and the alternatives it provides to utilitarianism the sophomore year strives to provide a careful and Kantian ethics are explored, including virtue treatment of the way in which the roots of ancient ethics, feminist ethics, and ethics of care. A wide philosophy and literature, which students read as variety of literature is offered, including Camus, freshmen, find new life in these works. Conrad, Dostoevsky, Faulkner, Flaubert, Goethe, Mann, Melville, Tolstoy, and Woolf. Modern poetry Junior Year (LIBA 321) and art are also introduced and explored. Junior semester of the Western Classics strand turns to the enormous paradigm shifts initiated Overall, the intention of the Western Classics by the work of Descartes. Major figures of this era strand is to introduce students to the richness are read closely and in depth, with a concentration and diversity of the Western tradition, to discern on the writings of Hume, Kant, Locke, Leibniz, the connections it holds for ideas and events, and WESTERN CLASSICS SAMPLE READING LIST Epic of Gilgamesh Shakespeare, King Lear Smith, Wealth of Nations Homer, Iliad Descartes, Meditations Freud, Civilization and Its Sophocles, Antigone Hume, Treatise of Human Nature Discontents Plato, Timaeus Spenser, Faerie Queen Heidegger, Being and Time Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics Austen, Sense and Sensibility Hegel, Phenomenology of the Spirit Virgil, Aeneid Emerson, Self-Reliance Dostoevsky, The Brothers New Testament Thoreau, Civil Disobedience Karamazov Augustine, Confessions Eliot, Middlemarch Goethe, Faust Dante, Divine Comedy Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson Tocqueville, Democracy in America 18 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
to explore its contribution to understanding and in Indian classics will culturally contextualize illuminating the primary themes that are threaded Indian Buddhism and the classical literature through DRBU’s educational goals. comprising religiously diverse themes. Indian Classics Through close reading of primary texts, students India is home to one of the earliest records of will consider issues fundamental to Indian systems human wisdom, meticulously preserved and of thought. For example, what is the influence passed down orally for thousands of years before of past karmic tendencies (saṃskāras) on present being committed to writing. The Vedas, meaning moment experience? What is the relationship knowledge, document the insight of the ancient between language and reality? What kind of ṛṣis, those who could directly see reality for what behavior is socially responsible? Students will it is. The Vedic corpus has always been venerated read Indian insights into causation, human nature, for the probing vision of the seers, and yet the and the goals of human life (puruṣārtha). They exposition of Indian wisdom has evolved over will explore South Asian perspectives on religious time in response to changing historical and thought and practice, the structure of the human cultural conditions as well as human receptivity. mind and perception, paths to liberation, and As a result, Indian classical texts present a rich limitations to infinite freedom. Through their compendium of approaches to the age-old engagement with the texts, students will grapple questions of what it means to be human and to live with the perennial riddles of existence and human a fulfilled life in society. potential. In India, philosophy is called darśana (seeing) The Indian Classics Strand enables students to because it is the distinct product of the seeing or develop a sincere appreciation for texts, while understanding of the ancient sages who dedicated at the same time encouraging them to critically their lives to observing the world and how their evaluate the ideas presented. Following Indian minds form an understanding of it. Classical tradition, no views are to be accepted unless the Indian thinkers expounded elaborate theories of students’ direct experience corroborates what they an unconscious, the causal basis of the mind, a read. By understanding the texts in the spirit of cyclical process of time and history, as well as a transformation intended by their authors, students unitary, limitless source for all life. The diverse will develop the capacity to see the world through schools of thought—from the Upaniṣads and a traditional Indian perspective. Sāṃkhya to the contemporary social philosophy of Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi—offer In the course of a year, the Indian Classics strand students compelling descriptions of the human aims to lead students not only in discovering condition, not to mention vestiges of the stirring the content of particular knowledges spanning debates that ensued between schools. Proficiency the history of Indian literature, but also in SAMPLE FRESHMAN SCHEDULE MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 8:00–10:00 AM Chinese Buddhist Chinese Buddhist Classics Classics Classics Classics 12:30–2:00 PM Language Rhetoric and Language Rhetoric and Language Writing Writing 2:00–3:30 PM Language Language Language Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 19
generating the confidence to apply their skills In the third semester, texts from other major to contemporary discourses. Through their Indian religious traditions will be read and encounter with Indian philosophical systems, discussed, such as Jainism, Śāktism, Śaivism, and students will explore the concept of self, the Sufism (although many practitioners of Sufism process of knowing and experiencing the world, maintain it is not a religion). and the nature and function of knowledge. Reading classical Indian literature will contribute In semester one, students will read selections from to the students’ ability to live responsibly, Vedic literature, including the Vedas, Brāhmaṇas, think critically, value diverse perspectives, and and Upaniṣads, focusing on creation myths, unity troubleshoot from multiple vantage points. and multiplicity, religious practice, self-realization, and concepts of the absolute, death, and desire. Sophomore & Senior Year (LIBA 231, 232, 431) Students will also read from at least one school In the first semester, students will read a of Vedic exegesis, such as Vedānta. Students will sampling of early Indian philosophy. Beginning then read Sāṃkhya, and Yoga philosophies, and with selections of Vedic literature, students will framing passages from the epic Mahābhārata and proceed to read from at least one school that its Bhagavadgītā. Through these texts, students will interprets the Vedas to consider philosophical take up questions about the goals of human life, and exegetical responses to these texts. Students nonviolence, a steady mind, and nonattachment. will read the texts in this order because the later texts assume prior familiarity with earlier ones. In semester two, students will read classical In addition to Vedic literature, students will Indian poetry, drama, and prose literature, read from the epic Mahābhārata, of which the which build on the philosophies studied in Bhagavadgītā forms a part, and its philosophical the previous semester. After reading passages underpinnings. Passages from modern Indian texts from the epics—the Mahābhārata and Vālmīki’s by Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi will Rāmāyaṇa—students will read theater masterpieces, also be read in order to show that classical texts, such as Kālidāsa’s Recognition of Śakuntalā and adapted for modern times, are still living traditions Bhavabhūti’s Rāma’s Last Act, the plots of which in Indian society. were adapted from these two epic tales. Prompted by the entertaining medium of performance, the In the second semester, the philosophical notions class will further explore enduring questions on introduced in the first semester will be explored the human condition, social duty, and devotion, through classical Indian literature. Building before turning to poetry and doing a close reading on the cultural understanding of philosophical of texts like Aśvaghoṣa’s finest work, Handsome texts, classical poetry, prose, and drama will be Nanda. These Hindu and Buddhist literary works read to survey the development of ideas over investigate the psychological influences of past time. The journey across India’s classical literary karmic impressions, enslavement to desire, masterpieces is undertaken for the sake of the human relationships, and the social conduct of an students’ own self-reflection and transformation. exemplary man. INDIAN CLASSICS SAMPLE READING LIST Vedas The Rāmāyaṇa by Vālmīki Devī Māhātmya Upadeśasāhasrī by Śrī Rāma’s Last Act by Bhavabhūti Paramārthasāra by Abhinavagupta Śaṅkarācārya The Recognition of Śakuntalā by The Enclosed Garden of the Truth by Swami Vivekananda Kālidāsa Hakim Sanai Yogasūtra by Patañjali Handsome Nanda by Aśvaghoṣa Kabir The Mahābhārata and Bhagavadgītā Ācārāṅgasūtra Hazrat Inayat Khan 20 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
In semester three, students will explore a range tradition of classical literature confronts issues of religious traditions from a broadly conceived of universal human concern: What is the ideal of Subcontinent. Students will discuss key ideas from a good person? What does it mean to live a good Jain, Goddess, Śaiva, and Islamic traditions, such as life? What are the virtues? How can we achieve ahiṃsā (non-injury), śakti (energy), the true Self, personal transformation? How should we relate to nature, and harmony. The texts range from ancient other people as well as to the natural world? How to contemporary times and investigate the individu- should we face death? al’s place in the larger whole. A fascinating spiritual tradition which extends from Turkey in the west Through careful study of classic texts, students to Iran, Afghanistan, and India in the east—Sufism become familiar with a range of Chinese answers includes some of the greatest poetry the world has to these pressing questions. Students will produced. The poetry of a few of these great Sufis familiarize themselves with concepts such as will comprise the bulk of the third semester read- the Dao, the Sage, the Exemplary Person (junzi), ing, though there is also some wonderful prose. methods of self-cultivation, the significance of ritual, and other important ideas through which Chinese Classics Chinese thinkers have framed and debated the most basic of human questions. Through the The Chinese Classics strand focuses on giving process of close reading, students develop the students a personal encounter with seminal ability to take on different perspectives and to Chinese thinkers using primary texts as sources recommend, adjust, alter, and even abandon a of inquiry and insight. As one of the oldest previous position or stance. civilizations in the world, China’s longstanding Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 21
This strand invites students to explore China’s students with fundamental skills for active formative thinkers and dominant modes of participation as global citizens. thought through the exploration of significant philosophical, literary, and aesthetic works. Freshman Year (LIBA 131 & 132) Students will be introduced to a wide repertoire This first year of the Chinese Classics strand is of literary genres as they progress through the devoted to a study of the classic texts of early strand: poetry, essays, philosophical works, China. Students begin their investigation of historical writing, hagiography, short stories, Chinese thought through a close reading of the novels, as well as ritual and divinatory texts. Analects of Confucius, taking a brief look at one of Through reading these foundational texts, students his adversaries, the philosopher Mozi, and then witness the development of Chinese thought over moving on to the writings of Mencius, Confucius’ time and experience firsthand the dialogues and most famous student. Next, students delve deeply debates between different texts and thinkers. into two Daoist classics, the Daodejing, a text in verse form that has been translated into as In a tradition where classics were so deeply many languages as the Bible, and the Zhuangzi, a revered that entry into the literati class required collection of stories and essays by China’s famous mastery of and extensive examinations on a Daoist sage. Students then return to the Confucian classical canon, the development and exchange debate through an investigation of the Xunzi, of ideas in China invariably built upon mastery which expands on Confucius’s ideas but in ways of foundational classical texts. Furthermore, significantly different from Mencius. Finally, familiarity with the Chinese context is aimed students explore the social and political theories at deepening students’ understanding of the of the last major thinker of the pre-Qin period, evolution of Buddhism as it traveled from India to Hanfeizi. China, where it both profoundly influenced and was in turn deeply transformed by native Chinese Interspersed among the philosophical readings thought. Through deep investigation of a diverse above, selections from the Five Classics will also range of Chinese classics, students develop their be analyzed and discussed. These include the ability to read, write, and think clearly. Shijing (Odes), the earliest collection of poetry in China; the Shujing (Documents), and the Chunqiu The Chinese Classics strand is crucial to DRBU’s (Spring and Autumn Annals), two early historical mission, which is to equip students with the works; the three Rites Canons, consisting of the Yili necessary skills for understanding and coping (Ceremonials), the Zhouli (Zhou Rites), and the Liji with life in our increasingly globalized and (Rites Records); as well as the Yijing (The Changes), multi-cultural world. The complex understanding that comes from the investigation of the central philosophical, literary, and aesthetic works of China provides students with an increased range of resources with which to address pressing questions in their own lives. Furthermore, by devoting significant attention to a non-Western culture, students gain the ability to appreciate a diversity of worldviews and understand the challenges—as well as the necessity—of being able to communicate and translate between different languages and cultures. Through grounding students in an understanding of the seminal texts of China, the Chinese Classics strand provides 22 DRBU 2020–2021 Catalog
a significant divinatory text. As some of the Yi, Zhu Xi, Lu Xiangshan, and Wang Yangming. earliest Chinese writings, the Five Classics are Students delve deeply into two chapters of the truly foundational in the sense that they are the Liji—the Daxue (The Great Learning) and Zhongyong building blocks upon which later intellectual and (Doctrine of the Mean)—which become canonized in literary writings are based. An understanding of the Song dynasty as two of the Four Books required these texts is crucial to comprehending almost all for exam candidates (along with the Analects and later Chinese thought. Mencius). Junior Year (LIBA 331) Rhetoric and Writing The third semester of the Chinese Classics strand focuses on significant works of literature, Essential to the DRBU curriculum is an emphasis on philosophy, and religion from the Han through writing. The ability to write is not viewed merely Ming dynasties. Building on their understanding as a skill, but is instead considered integral to the of early Chinese classics, students can see how ability to think clearly and critically. With this the arrival of Buddhism begins to influence the in mind, attention to writing is embedded in all development of Chinese worldviews and practices. courses. All instructors will implement current The year opens with an examination of the Han writing pedagogy with an eye toward the way in dynasty syncretic work, the Huainanzi, which which reading, class discussion, and clear thinking takes elements from texts the students have read are enhanced and articulated in the writing process. the previous year and uses them to create what it claims to be a superior and comprehensive view Freshman Year (LIBA 141 & 142) on the world and governing. Students then turn Senior Year (LIBA 441 & LIBA 442) to selections from important writings from the Two courses will be dedicated in the freshman Han dynasty such as the Shiji (Records of the Grand year to ensure that by the end of the first year all Historian). students have met basic criteria for college-level writing. These abilities are practiced and refined A selection of poetries is offered, including Six throughout the four-year program and culminate Dynasties poems by Tao Yuanming and the Seven in a senior essay, written under the careful Sages of the Bamboo Grove, as well as Tang dynasty guidance of a faculty member. Students take two verses by Wang Wei, Li Bai, Du Fu, Bai Zhuyi, courses in the senior year that are designed to Hanshan, and others. Essays by writers such as Han provide instruction and resources to complete Yu and Ouyang Xiu are examined before the class their senior essays. A tutoring program will be turns to major Neo-Confucian thinkers of the Song available for any students requiring or requesting and Ming dynasties, including Zhang Zai, Cheng additional support for their writing. CHINESE CLASSICS SAMPLE READING LIST Confucius, Analects Shijing (Odes) Tang Poetry Mozi Shujing (Documents) Daxue (Great Learning) Mencius Yijing (The Changes) Zhongyong (Doctrine of the Mean) Daodejing Xiaojing (Classic on Family Zhang Zai, Western Inscription Zhuangzi, Inner Chapters Reverence) Zhuxi Xunzi Huainanzi Wang Yangming, Instructions for Han Feizi Sima Qian, Shiji (Records of the Practical Living Grand Historian) Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts 23
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