In this course we explore some of the literature that focuses on human suffering. For example, what religious and philosophic responses have been given to questions of why people suffer? To what extent is human suffering part of the human condition, and to what extent can it be avoided? What is religious fanaticism and how does it differ from religious devotion? Why has so much blood been shed in the name of higher ideals and noble causes? Emphasis is given to the social and ethical dimensions of religious life and attempts to make sense out of nonsense. Our ultimate purpose is to see the way in which suffering can be dealt with and overcome through courage, hope, and human solidarity. The pursuit of peace, human happiness, and rationality are stressed. The class relies on selections from classical, modern, and contemporary texts and thinkers. Classes will be divided between lecture and discussion. The pace of readings will be adjusted in relation to the needs of the class. We will supplement our inquiry by analyzing films and dramas relevant to this subject. This course has no prerequisites and is open to all students.

Richard Sugarman ()

Dates: June 17 - July 12, 2013; Credit not awarded for more than one PHIL course below 100 except 013; Cross listed w/REL 096 Z1 with maximum enrollment of 20

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