"Buddhism is not a religion, but Paganism is": the applicability of the concept of ‘religion’ to Dharmic and nature-based traditions, and the implications for religious education

Cush, D and Robinson, C (2021) '"Buddhism is not a religion, but Paganism is": the applicability of the concept of ‘religion’ to Dharmic and nature-based traditions, and the implications for religious education.' In: Biesta, G and Hannam, P, eds. Religion and education: the forgotten dimensions of religious education? Brill / Sense, Leiden, pp. 66-84. ISBN 9789004446373

Abstract

This chapter explores the concept of religion in popular, academic and adherent usage, and in particular whether it is at all helpful when applied to Dharmic or Nature-based traditions. Problems include the homogenisation of diversity and the construction of separate and unified systems of beliefs and practices which have affected portrayals of ‘Eastern’ traditions, including in religious education. It concludes by examining the importance for religious education of opening up the debate about what is meant by ‘religion,’ and of including the study of Dharmic traditions, a wider range of worldviews and new forms of ‘being religious’ from an early age.

Item Type:	Book Chapter or Section
Divisions:	School of Writing, Publishing and the Humanities
Related URLs:	https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004446397
Date Deposited:	16 Feb 2023 16:56
Last Modified:	17 Feb 2023 13:30
URI / Page ID:	https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/15208

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