중, 고등학교 한국사 교과서에 나타나는 종교 서술의 문제점 -비교종교학의 관점에서-

Abstract

This essay points out three types of problems thin are seen in Korean middle and high school Korean history textbooks' description of religion. First, most Korean history textbooks try to use religion for demonstrating characteristic features of Korean national history, which not only results in the failure to notice the general human religiosity but also causes some errors in describing history of religion. Second. the textbooks (especially those covering the ancient times) emphasize the importance of religion in antiquity while they practically overlook religion in modem history. And religious aspects in prehistoric age and high antiquity are described as if they are not found in high levels of civilization. As a result religion in the textbooks is shown as if it is pre-modem and non-scientific. Third, by explaining that religion IS determined by political ideologies and economic motivations, the textbooks disregard the power and importance of religion perse. What religion teaches and aims at is passed over in the textbooks. As the value and potentiality of religion are ignored in the textbooks. religion is made to look like being manipulated by economic and political motives alone. It IS impossible for Korean students who learn religion through these textbooks to get the proper knowledge of religion. The textbooks should recognize the importance and value of religion, as well as avoid describing as if religious beliefs and behaviors are pre-modem remains. They also should suggest general explanation up to certain point along with historical specificity that is related to religion.