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Yale University

South Asian 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, "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community", 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 3 of 5 of the "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community" specialization 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 these aspects of the South Asian religions, philosophies, and practices of Hinduism, Jainism, Yoga, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Baha’i Faith. So much has emerged in the last several decades in this area, as you will see. While we have taught this course at Yale, we have adapted it for learners from a wide range of backgrounds. 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.

Status: Cultural Diversity
Status: Environment and Resource Management
BeginnerCourse16 hours

Featured reviews

EC

5.0Reviewed Jul 23, 2022

This was well put together- it would have helped me if there were printable timelines and summaries-but that's my learning style- does anyone read what we write??

PP

5.0Reviewed Mar 10, 2023

Excellent dialogue of the South Asian religions and Ecology.

LC

5.0Reviewed Jun 23, 2024

I really liked the course. It was well-rounded and I took with me a lot of important information. Thank you.

MS

5.0Reviewed Dec 29, 2023

Extremely well-crafted, fun and educational all at the same time

NA

5.0Reviewed May 12, 2025

Even though I am an Asian this course made me go deeper on the religions & the importance of ecology with it being all interconnected for survival.

All reviews

Showing: 14 of 14

Elena Colicelli
5.0
Reviewed Jul 24, 2022
Philip Jude Fernandez (Deacon Philip)
5.0
Reviewed Mar 10, 2023
Thomas Achermann
5.0
Reviewed Feb 1, 2024
Nisha Prakash
5.0
Reviewed Apr 26, 2022
Preminda D. De Silva
5.0
Reviewed Jun 2, 2023
Wagner Diniz
5.0
Reviewed May 17, 2025
Rahul Chandrakant Chavan
5.0
Reviewed Jun 17, 2023
Narendra Achom
5.0
Reviewed May 13, 2025
Lucy Chingneihoih
5.0
Reviewed Jun 23, 2024
Mridul Sharma
5.0
Reviewed Dec 29, 2023
Sheila Schuette
5.0
Reviewed Jun 9, 2024
Patty Kitchens powell
5.0
Reviewed Aug 25, 2024
ELMER MAGAÑA PEREZ
5.0
Reviewed Sep 15, 2022
Akshay Mutalikdesai
4.0
Reviewed Oct 31, 2025