Religion and Happiness in Korean Higher Education

N

21

Foreign Countries; Psychological Patterns; Correlation; Confucianism; Buddhism; Christianity; Cultural Influences; Private Colleges; Role of Religion; Moral Values; Philosophy; College Students; Curriculum Design; Student Welfare; Literature; Asian Culture; Ethical Instruction

The purpose of this study is to examine the relevance between religion and happiness in the aspect of Korean higher education. To review this paper logically, three research questions are addressed. First, is religion able to provide happiness for people? Second, what is the relevance between religion and happiness in the aspect of Korean higher education? Last, what are the implications of religion for happiness education in South Korean universities? In order to defend these questions, a descriptive content analysis method will be utilized with a cross cultural approach. As for the limitations of this study, religion is limited to four major religions, such as Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity, which historically influencing Korean society and culture. In particular, the study is focused on The Great Learning in Confucian Classics, Dhammapada in Buddhist Sutras, Tao Te Ching in Taoist Sutras, and the Proverbs in the Old Testament in the Christian Bible. Additionally, education is mainly centered on South Korean higher education. The significance of this study is to provide not only basic theories but also useful resources regarding happiness education related to religion for educational theorists and practitioners. One of research results is that Buddhism and Christianity in contemporary Korea as two major religions not only have contributed to Korean society and culture, but have led Korean private tertiary institutions. In addition, Korean elite/higher education on the basis of religion has been a significant means to come up to the way of happiness as well as to open the door of social success.

As Provided

2019

ED597136