The Contemplative Studies minor is broadly interdisciplinary, incorporating coursework in the humanities, arts, and sciences to explore the theory, practice, history, and scientific study of diverse contemplative traditions. In addition to the intellectual study of these topics, students train in the daily application of secularized contemplative techniques. Critical reflection on subjective experience is a key component, and research as well as creative expression are encouraged and supported.
The minor offers students a foundation in four primary areas:
1) the theory of contemplation across traditions and history
2) the application of contemplation in various human endeavors, including philosophy, religion, art, and performance
3) the scientific study of meditation, its cutting-edge technologies, and the modes of gathering quantifiable psychological data to document its effects on the brain and well-being
4) significant training and experience in contemplative practice towards the development of concentration, empathy, stress-reduction, creativity, etc.
Minor Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CPRD 104 | Peacefulness: Here and Now | 3 |
| PSYC 100 | General Psychology | 3 |
| RELG 350 | Happiness: Here and Now | 3 |
| Select three courses of the following: 1, 2 | 9 | |
| Neoclassicism to Impressionism | ||
| Post-Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism | ||
| American Art | ||
| Pop Art to the Present | ||
| Modern Architecture | ||
| Global Modernisms in East Asian Art | ||
| Seminar: Special Studies in Art History | ||
| Ceramics II | ||
| Sculpture II | ||
| Multiple Imaging | ||
| Painting II | ||
| Neurobiology | ||
| Ancient Tragedy | ||
| Sacred Spaces | ||
| Ancient Greek Philosophy | ||
| Cognitive Psychology | ||
| Biological Psychology | ||
| Cognitive Neuroscience | ||
| Positive Psychology | ||
| Sensation and Perception | ||
| Hinduism | ||
| Buddhism | ||
| Ethics of Religion and Violence | ||
| Theatre and Society | ||
| Principles of Acting | ||
| Voice and Body Movement | ||
| Stage Dialects | ||
| Acting I | ||
| Acting II | ||
Any 491 (with approved topic) | ||
| Total Credits | 18 | |
- 1
At least six (6) credits at the 300/400-level
- 2
Special topics courses in related fields (ANTH 271 Special Studies in Ethnography, ANTH 371 Special Topics in Anthropology; ARTH 470 Seminar: Special Studies in Art History; ARTS 381 Special Topics in Studio Art; ARTS 470 Special Studies in Studio Art; CPRD 100 Topics in Classics, Philosophy, and Religion; CPRD 299 Mysterium Humanum Studies; IDIS 350 Study Abroad; PHIL 231 Topics in Philosophy, PHIL 331 Topics in Philosophy; RELG 231 Special Studies in Religion, RELG 331 Special Studies in Religion) as well as other courses with relevant content may be substituted with permission, including towards the 300/400-level requirements, with approval of the program coordinator.
Contemplative Studies Program
Angela L. Pitts, Program Coordinator
Affiliated Faculty
Kalpesh Bhatt, Classics, Philosophy, and Religion
Joseph G. Dreiss, Art History
Caitlin C. Finlayson, Geography
Miriam N. Liss, Psychological Science
Deborah A. O’Dell, Biological Sciences
Angela L. Pitts, Classics, Philosophy, and Religion
Holly H. Schiffrin, Psychological Science
Hilary E. Stebbins, Psychological Science