The Suffering and the Human Condition Certification by Coursera delves into the intricacies of human suffering and its profound impact on our lives. This comprehensive course offers a multidimensional exploration of the nature of suffering, providing a deeper understanding of the human condition. By examining various perspectives, theories, and insights from philosophy, psychology, sociology, and spirituality, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding suffering.
Throughout Suffering and the Human Condition by Coursera, you will embark on a thought-provoking journey, contemplating the meaning and significance of suffering in different contexts. You will explore the psychological and emotional responses to suffering, the historical and societal influences that shape our understanding, and the ethical considerations in addressing suffering.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, this course equips you with the knowledge and tools to critically analyse and engage with the concept of suffering. The course contains 5 modules with approximately 8 hours of content.
Video: Empathy: The Human Connection to Patient Care
Decartes and Dualism
Practice Exercise
What is suffering and should we study it?
Videos
What Durkheim Said About Suffering
What Marx Said About Suffering
What Weber Said About Suffering
Reading
National Public Radio Survey: "3 Out Of 5 Americans Are Lonely.”
Practice Exercise
What are the different forms and causes of suffering?
Videos
Suffering in the World Today Part I: Anomie and Deviance
Suffering in the World Today Part II: Poverty and Inequality
Suffering in the World Today Part III: Meaninglessness, Systematic Violence, and Unforeseen Dangers
Suffering in the World Today Part IV: Improvements and Conclusion
Reading
“The Great Paradox of Our Time: Everything is Both Better and Worse Than Ever Before"
Practice Exercise
How much suffering is in the world today?
Videos
The Meaning and Portrayal of Suffering Part I: Sacred/Religious Understandings
The Meaning and Portrayal of Suffering Part II: Secular/Scientific Understandings
The Meaning and Portrayal of Suffering Part III: American Views
The Meaning and Portrayal of Suffering Part IV: Journalism vs. Social Science
The Meaning and Portrayal of Suffering Part V: Journalism vs. Social Science Part 2
Readings
“How Natural Disasters Can Be Faith-Challenging Experiences"
Video about Child Neglect
“The Disadvantage of Sensationalism in the Media”
Practice Exercise
Has the meaning and portrayal of suffering changed over time?
Videos
Religion and Terrorism Part I: Questionable Assumptions About the Nature of Religion
Religion and Terrorism Part II: Religion is Not the Problem but it is Problematic
Religion and Terrorism Part III: Can religion be made less problematic?
Digital Media Part I: Empathy Machines vs. Instruments of Indifference
Digital Media Part II: How Spectators Talk and Respond to Suffering
Readings
“You Shouldn’t Blame Islam for Terrorism. Religion Isn’t A Crucial Factor in Attacks”
“'Horrific' And 'Surreal': The Words We Use To Bear Witness”
Practice Exercises
Religion and Terrorism
Digital Media
Evaluation process
There are no specific exams for this certification course. The assessment is based on completing course modules, assignments, and any required projects.