ASSIGNMENT: For this Touchstone, you will demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of religions so far by comparing and contrasting two of the world’s religions.
In a 400-600 word short essay, you will compare and contrast one “eastern” religion and one “western” religion discussed so far in this course. Using specific examples from the lessons in Unit 1 and Unit 2 to support your conclusions, you will analyze some of the ways in which these religions are both similar and different.
A. Assignment Guidelines
DIRECTIONS: Select one “eastern” religion and one “western” religion discussed so far in this course. Review the lessons in Unit 1 and Unit 2 as you consider how these religions are both similar and different.
Your short essay should include four parts:
Briefly introduce the two religions you have selected to compare and contrast.
Identify and explain at least two commonalities between these two religions, using specific examples from the lessons.
Identify and explain at least two differences between these two religions, using specific examples from the lessons.
Briefly summarize & conclude your short essay. In your conclusion, explain what we can learn about religions in general by noticing both their similarities and differences.
As you develop your response, you should compare or contrast at least one example from each of the following elements of religion:
Historical & geographic origins
Core beliefs & doctrines
Core rituals & practices
Important texts & narratives
Your examples should be specific, and should cite the lesson from which your information comes, using in-text citations. Citations should use this style: (Monotheism, n.d.) or (Primal Religions, n.d.).
