Introduction to Religions & Ecology

At first glance the fields of religion and ecology may seem and unlikely pairing, but a deeper consideration reveals the two have a great deal to contribute to one another and are indeed inextricably linked. Religions recognize the unity and interdependence of humans with nature. Ecological sciences affirm this deep interconnection with the natural world. This partnership can inspire work for the wellbeing of the Earth community
There is a need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world’s religions and their ecological contributions. This specialization, starting with this course, contributes such a perspective. Each course celebrates the vitality of religiously-informed action for the Earth and recognizes the longstanding contributions of Indigenous peoples in offering visions and practices for ecological flourishing.

This course is part one of the “Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community” series of classes that focuses on the ecological dimensions of religious traditions throughout the world. The course you are about to begin is designed as a gateway to the other classes. It describes the nature of religion as well as the emergence of the field of ecology. In addition, it highlights concerns for forestry issues, the climate emergency, global ethics, and environmental justice.

This course is for lifelong learners curious to know more about world religions and ecology, environmental professionals eager to deepen the discourse of environmental protection and conservation, those working with non-profit organizations and NGOs on issues of ecological justice, and religion leaders and laity who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects.

• Religious:

  What environmental activities are going on in my own religious tradition? What opportunities are there for interreligious engagement?

• Environmental actors/researchers

• Policymakers

Syllabus

Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Week 1
MODULE 1: Course Introduction
Week 2
MODULE 2: The Emergence of the Field of Religion and Ecology
Week 3
MODULE 3: Religious Ecology: Orienting, Grounding, Nurturing, Transforming
Week 4
MODULE 4: Views of Nature in the West
Week 5
MODULE 5: Ecology, Conservation, and Ethics
Week 6
MODULE 6: Emergence of the Moral Force of Religion and Ecology
Week 7
MODULE 7: Building on Interreligious Dialogue: Global Ethics and Environmental Justice
Week 8
MODULE 8: Course Conclusion

FAQ

When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?

Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:

What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

Reviews

Good overview- makes you want to go deeper into these ideas

I loved the content of the course. I am falling in love with this field of study, Religions and Ecology and I hope that this course will continue to inspire many people.

I loved this curse. It kept my interest, had great resources, inspiring video and the lectures were easyto follow.

Fantastic. I will certainly complete the Specialization. :-)