Help with Teaching

Alethea Thompson wrote: I would also go on the record and explain that as a rule, Jediism is not the only way to practice the Jedi Path- there is an entire philosophy which looks at the path as something spiritual, but not religious in nature, known as "Jedi Realism".

I see Jediism as incorporating all styles of being a Jedi, including what you call Jedi Realism. Therefore I consider Jediism to be the broadest and most inclusive term to define the path of being a Jedi, in whatever particular balance or arrangement the individual might prefer. Whilst what you call Jedi Realists to me sounds better defined as Jedi Pragmatists almost? The use of the title Jedi Realism sounds better to define a boundary between role playing and realism, and obviously Jediism is realism.

To the OP; If it was me I probably wouldn't advertise any of the sites in the content of the course, but perhaps add them in an associated resource link/paper. I'd look through all the sites and write up what you think constitutes a good common ground between them all and then give it to a few senior members who you trust or think might have good insight to check for accuracy. Different sites styles might represent the nature of depth within the community. Good luck!!!!

Adder, the terms:

Jediism, Jedi Realism, and Jedi Pragmatism are standard throughout the community now.
Jediism refers to any religious affiliation.
Jedi Realism refers to any mystic/practical sect that disavows religious order or affiliation.
And, Jedi Pragmatism focuses on the non-mystic side of the Path and closes in on SOLELY doing good deeds and "being" a Jedi.

Yes Connor, I know, its just I find the use of Realism in that way condescending, as seems to imply religion is not real, for it is that which it excludes. Perhaps Jedi Physicalism would sit better with me. The only way Realism fits nicely in my interpretation is to differentiate against role playing. Just my opinion of course, but thats what anyone will get if they ask me

hahahha. Fair enough.

I see Jediism as incorporating all styles of being a Jedi, including what you call Jedi Realism.

Oh I'm afraid not. I have been a Jedi Realist since before the term existed, since we were all just Jedi. The term Jediism is even younger.

I dont care how long you've been in the community, members are entitled to their opinions, and should not have them debased simply because someone else has been in the community longer. "I've been here since time before" is not a decent arguement, nor does it make a valid point...

I prefer jedi as opposed to jediist,jedi realist, or any other variant....why must we divide ourselves when we're all jedi? The one simple unassuming word is more than enough....just my view...

'Within roughly a week's time'...

Hard to know what that means? An hour a day for 3 days?

I'd just like to court controversy here and say that if it's for a theology course, the parts of the Jedi community that are not religious aren't really particularly relevant...

I wouldn't worry too much about all of the Jedi Realism etc fandango...

If it's not religious what place does it have on a religious course?

It may be worth mentioning that not all people who call themselves Jedi are necessarily members of Jediism, but I would focus on explaining Jediism and what makes it a legitimate religious belief system...

So, going with my 3 x 1 hour idea...

Lesson 1:
- Background of Jediism (evidence of similar beliefs throughout history, the impact of the films, formalisation via the growing online community, philosophical influences)
- Core beliefs (possibly using TOTJO doctrine as examples, but ensuring that it is made clear that it is the doctrine of one organisation and not Jediism itself)

Lesson 2:
- Practices of Jediism (religious/liturgical practices, meditation, helping/protecting people (i.e. learning first aid, martial arts etc) - making it clear that these are not necessarily required but are often encouraged)
- Jediism as an inter-faith religion (would suggest contacting the Special Interest Advisors if you'd like more info on how other religions/faiths tie-in)

Lesson 3:
- Recap (you could consider asking people to write down any questions they have at the end of the previous lesson and then plan the last session to cover some of these perhaps)


I'm by no means saying that's how you ought to do it...they're just some suggestions off of the top of my head.

I'm guessing that realistically you'll only have time to give an overview...so stick to what you think the most important things are. Don't worry about explaining every tiny little thing...if anyone wants to find out more information as a result of your lessons, that's what the internet is for...