From the Paper
"This study will examine Taoism in terms of the impact of that religion of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu. The study will compare these two men's philosophies and ideas as they relate to Taoism, and will explore the implications of their thoughts for governing oneself and others. Also included will be the consideration of the relationship of their approaches and contemporary counterculture.

A comparison with the conformity of Confucianism shows the non-conformity to be a clear reflection of contemporary counterculture. The latter rejects the traditional culture just as Taoism rejects Confucianism. It is no surprise, then, to find the contemporary counterculture leaning toward Taoist thought, Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu in its attempts to find an alternative world view and a fresh, radical, individualized and more ..."

Abstract
Compares and contrasts the three religions. Their origins and basic beliefs. Idea of suffering. Hinduism's vision of existence. Belief in reincarnation of the two Eastern religions. Christian belief that individuals have one life on earth and eternal existence. Monotheism of Christianity. Many gods of Hinduism. Godhead of Buddhism.

From the Paper
This study will compare and contrast Christianity, Hinduism,
and Buddhism, focusing on their origins and basic beliefs as
presented in the historical context of The Heritage of World
Civilizations, by Albert Craig, et al. In general, Hinduism and
Buddhism, religions of the East, are more similar to one another
than to Christianity, a religion of the West. Both Hinduism and
Buddhism are much older historically than Christianity, while
Christianity, unlike the other two, is monotheistic. Both the
Eastern religions believe in reincarnation, while Christianity
holds that the individual has one earthly life and thereafter
experiences an eternal existence in either hell or heaven.
Hinduism is the major religion of India, traceable to "the
second millennium before our common era." Craig adds that today
the term Hinduism "has become a catchall term used for all the

Abstract
This paper explores the caste system in Indian society, focusing on the lowest class of humans, the 'chandalas' or the 'untouchables' who are the mixed offspring of different castes. The paper provides an historical background of the caste system which came into being around 600-664CE. It then looks at the situation of the untouchables who are denied many social and religious privileges and the role the Indian government plays in trying to intervene to overcome this discrimination. The paper discusses the future of the caste system, especially the situation of the disadvantaged.

From the Paper
"The longevity of the caste system is rooted in traditional Hindu thinking. The caste system was not born overnight, but had evolved over three millennia, adapting to the innumerable migrations and invasions of diverse peoples, before becoming what it is today (Paz 44). Thus, the Indian government has an uphill battle in attempting to overturn the prejudices of the caste system. Apart from increasing the quotas of the jobs to the backward classes and the scheduled castes, the government should improve their access to education ("Casting" 18). Currently, only 62% of Indians complete primary education with less than half enrolled in secondary school. In order to promote the causes of the disadvantaged classes, education will be a key factor in enabling them to rise above the prejudices of the caste system. Furthermore, with the rise of urbanization and Western influence, the power of the caste system has diminished in the cities. In the distant future, the ideal Indian society can be created?one that respects the essential role of the caste system in endowing each individual with a sense of lineage and identity, without the dire discrimination perpetrated against the backward classes and the scheduled castes."

Tags:Rig, Veda, Purusa, Manu, Hsuan, Tsang, Hinduism

Abstract
This paper examines how arranged marriages have been greatly successful and continue to be the gateway to wedlock for almost all the communities in India. It attempts to understand why arranged marriages have been more stable in India and other Asian countries than love marriages in the Western world, together with the advantages and disadvantages of this approach to marriage. It shows how there is a cultural influence that is closely linked with the practice of arranged marriages and discusses this traditional approach.

Outline
Introduction
Arranged Marriage (What It Is)
Indian Marriage
The Engagement
The Bridal Makeup
Henna the Traditional Decoration
Arranged Marriages in Japan
Marriages Statistics and Misconceptions
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Indian tradition is amongst the oldest and still vibrant systems in the world. In spite of the impact of foreign rule and the consequent culture influx it still stands out as a strong nation resonating with a unique cultural heritage. Arranged marriages have been a part of Indian system for a very long time and it is dated to be there since the very birth of the institute of marriage. The first step in the marriage process is the Horoscope. Indians pay much attention to horoscopes. After preparing a detailed horoscope the parents exchange it with prospective boys and girls. The services of the horoscope matching centers are also utilized. Once the horoscopes are compared for their compatibility the parents initiate the next step, that is they arrange a meeting to see the girl."

Tags:cuture, religion, henna, engagement, bride

Abstract
This study examines and compares the different views of karma in Hinduism and Buddhism, including consideration of the Buddhist theory of dependent origination, the role of actions vs. intentions in karma, and the difference between the Hindu concept of reincarnation and the Buddhist concept of rebirth.

From the Paper
"This study will examine and compare the different views of karma in Hinduism and Buddhism, including consideration of the Buddhist theory of dependent origination, the role of actions vs. intentions in karma, and the difference between the Hindu concept of reincarnation and the Buddhist concept of rebirth.


The concept of karma in general is not as simple as the popular interpretation of it would hold. Comparing the two religions' views brings out additional subtleties and complexities. On one level, karma would seem to lock the individual into a cycle of behavior from which he has no hope of breaking free, as Schroeder writes with respect to the Hindu definition of the concept:
Karma: "deed, action, impression": The law of causality: all events have causes and results; the principle of universal..."

Abstract
This paper explores the text of R.K. Narayan's telling of "The Ramayana" in relation to the human qualities in the characters of Rama and Ravana. Rama is explored as embodying all of the positive human qualities, while the demon-king Ravana exemplifies all negative human qualities.

Abstract
An examination of Indian arts with emphasis on the images and symbolism in the Indian notions of art and religion. The author examines the influences of the Western world on Indian expression of art.

From the Paper
"For thousands of years the arts have thrived on the Indian sub-continent, with the advent of western influence and occupation taking place only within the last few hundred years. The impact of western influence upon India is unmistakable, especially in regards to her arts and religion, serving not so much as a contributor, but as a critic. To even begin to comprehend and appreciate the incredible diversity and complexity of Indian arts, we must undergo a paradigm shift of our most basic western beliefs and notions of art and religion. Therefore, an understanding of the historical interpretations of Indian art is essential. Going beyond this, we must construct a rudimentary primer on seeing Indian images, also known as daran, and trying to understand, at least at a basic level, the symbolism involved in such religiously rich imagery."

Tags:art, continent, images, india, sub

Abstract
An examination of the role of the Indian woman in society. An analysis of the "Mahabharata" which goes into great depth when describing this role. The author looks at the lives of Indian women, their status, education, goals and contributions.

From the Paper
"The Mahabharata is essential for understanding human nature and the culture of India, past and present. As declared by Vyasa, "Whatever is not found in the Mahabharata cannot be found anywhere else." The Mahabharata does indeed present a complete picture of the lives of women in India, dealing with such topics as status, education, goals, marriage, achievement, family life, social life, moral codes, duty (dharma), and etiquette."

Tags:hindu, india, indian, ramayana, vedas, vishnu

Abstract
This paper discusses the importance of environment in Hindu culture in religion. Hinduism lays immense stress on the protection of the environment, which they feel is an integral a part of man, and casts its influence on human beings. Therefore they preach protection of the ecology that includes everything from trees and groves to wild animals and birds.

From the Paper
"The nature and environment have immense importance in the Hindu religion and man is advised not to tamper with the ecological balance as it plays a great role in man's life. No religion of the world stresses as much importance on the preservation of the environment as Hinduism does. The Mahabharata, Ramayana, Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad, Gita, Puranas and Smriti are all holy books of this religion and they contain messages regarding the significance of ecology and environment in the life of man."

Tags:preservation, animals, ecological, beauty, responsible, civilization, harm, natural, resources

Abstract
This paper takes an academic but practical look at this diverse belief system of the Hindu religion. The origins and development of Hinduism are discussed as well at its role in the world of today and in the lives of its adherents. Contrasts are made with Christian belief systems and Hindu and non-Hindu scholars are quoted.

Outline
Hinduism's Ancient Roots
Hinduism's Holy Writings
Teachings and Conduct - Ahimsa and Varna
The Frustrating Cycle of Existence
The Pantheon of Hindu Gods
Hinduism and the River Ganges
Hinduism and the Soul
Hindu Teaching of Hell
Hinduism's Rival

From the Paper
"Brahma, although central to Hindu mythology, does not occupy a place of importance in the worship of the average Hindu. In fact very few temples are dedicated to him, even though he is called Brahma the Creator. However, Hindu mythology attributes the assignment of creating the material universe to a supreme being, source, or essence-Brahman, or Brahm, identified with the sacred syllable OM or AUM. All three members of the triad are considered part of that "Being," and all other gods are viewed as different manifestations. Whichever god is then worshiped as supreme, that deity is thought to be all-embracing. So while Hindus openly venerate millions of gods, most acknowledge only one true God, who can take many forms: male, female, or even animal. Therefore, Hindu scholars are quick to point out that Hinduism is actually monotheistic, not polytheistic. Later Vedic thinking, however, discards the concept of a supreme being, replacing it with an impersonal divine principle or reality."

Tags:brahma, ganges, soul, hell