Research Paper Due 416 Worth 100 Points
Research Paper Due 416 Worth 100 Pts
Research Paper (due 4/16 –worth 100 pts .) Details —You will choose one of the “big five” religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, or Islam) and one of the other religions from the textbook (indigenous religions, Jainism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto, Sikhism, or one of “new religious movements” described in chapter 11). I will give a brief overview of each (e.g. its origins, current popularity, and central teachings). You will, then, compare and contrast the two religions. Specifically, I want you to mention at least two similarities and two differences and give examples of each. I ask that you use two reputable sources (not Wikipedia!) for each of the religions in addition to the textbook.
After analyzing the two religions, compare the religious beliefs to your personal beliefs (whether or not you are religious). Discuss a few similarities and differences between the three views. Length : 5-7 pages, double-spaced. Formatting : Your paper will be formatted according to MLA style (if you have questions about this formatting style, there are resources available through the library and online).
Paper For Above instruction
The purpose of this research paper is to explore and compare two distinct religious traditions: one from the "big five" religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, or Islam—and another from a different category, such as indigenous religions, Jainism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto, Sikhism, or a new religious movement described in chapter 11 of the textbook. This comparative analysis aims to deepen understanding of each religion’s origins, core teachings, and contemporary practices, as well as examine their similarities and differences. Additionally, the paper will include a personal reflection on how these religious beliefs compare to the student’s own worldview, regardless of personal religiosity.
To fulfill this assignment, students must first select their two religions for analysis. For each religion, a thorough overview will be provided, including its historical roots, current prevalence, and central doctrines. The research should be supported by at least two reputable sources per religion beyond the textbook—these could include scholarly articles, books published by academic presses, or reputable religious studies websites. Wikipedia is not considered an acceptable academic source.
Following the overviews, the paper will compare the two religions by identifying at least two similarities and two differences, supported by specific examples. This comparative section will highlight common themes or practices, as well as notable divergences, such as beliefs about the divine, rituals, ethical perspectives, or life after death.
The final section requires a personal reflection, where students discuss how the beliefs of each religion compare to their own, whether they are religious or not. This reflection should explore at least a few similarities and differences between the student’s worldview and the religious perspectives studied.
The paper should be 5-7 pages long, double-spaced, and conform to MLA formatting standards. Clear, coherent, and well-organized writing is expected, with proper citations and a references page listing all sources used.
References
- Smith, Huston. The World's Religions. HarperOne, 1991.
- Flood, Gavin. The Importance of Religious Literacy. Wiley-Blackwell, 2014.
- Shoemaker, Matt. The Religions of Asia: A Comparative Approach. Routledge, 2014.
- Yasui, Susumu. Shinto: The Kami Way. University of Hawaii Press, 2010.
- Hinnells, John R. The River of Lost Footsteps: A Personal History of Burma. Princeton University Press, 2003.