A Convergence of Worlds: Hindu Themes in American Culture

Wednesdays, 7 – 8:30 p.m. CT  
September 3 – September 24 (4 classes)

Hindu thought and practice have informed American culture in profound and often unrecognized ways. From yoga studios and mindfulness apps to iconic music and movies, Hindu concepts have quietly woven themselves into the American cultural fabric. Yet the depth and nuance of these contributions remain largely unknown to many. This four-week course offers a rich exploration of how Hinduism has shaped American life—spiritually, artistically, and socially.

Each session will examine key moments and movements, from early spiritual pioneers and the Theosophical Society to modern media representations. Participants will engage with historical narratives, pop culture references, and contemporary issues such as cultural appropriation and interfaith interpretation. Whether you're new to Hindu studies or a longtime student of comparative religion, this course offers a fresh, accessible, and thought-provoking perspective.

See below for the full course syllabus.

Registrants will receive on-demand access to recording(s) that can be viewed for two weeks following the conclusion of the program. Late registrants will receive recording links to all missed sessions.

TS members: $70 • Nonmembers: $80

Jeffery D. Long, Ph.D., is the Carl W. Zeigler Professor of Religion, Philosophy, and Asian Studies at Elizabethtown College, where he has taught since receiving his doctoral degree from the University of Chicago Divinity School in the year 2000. He is the author of such books as Jainism: An Introduction, Hinduism in America: A Convergence of Worlds (which won the DANAM book award in 2021), and Discovering Indian Philosophy. He has spoken at a wide array of venues, including the Parliament of the World’s Religions, the United Nations, the University of Chicago, Yale University, Princeton University, Delhi University, and at Vedanta Societies and Hindu and Jain temples and centers around the world. He has also appeared in documentaries for both PBS and the History Channel.

Course Syllabus:

Week 1: The History of Hinduism in America: An Overview

We begin with a broad historical survey of how Hindu thought has been received and adapted in the United States—from the Transcendentalists and the Theosophical Society to Swami Vivekananda, Paramahansa Yogananda, and the rise of yoga. We’ll examine the 1960s counterculture, the popularity of Eastern spirituality, and the evolving role of the Indian American community in shaping American religion and politics.

Week 2: Hindu Themes in the Music of George Harrison and the Beatles

The Beatles, and George Harrison in particular, served as cultural bridges between Hindu spirituality and Western audiences. This session explores the spiritual journey of Harrison, his devotion to Krishna, and how Hindu themes influenced the lyrics and legacy of the Beatles. We’ll also look at the counterculture's embrace of pluralism and experiential spirituality rooted in Hindu concepts.

Week 3: Hindu Themes in the Star Wars Films, Books, and TV Series

Did you know the name “Yoda” is derived from a Sanskrit word? While not intended as a direct teaching tool for Hinduism, the Star Wars universe is deeply infused with Hindu-inspired ideas. This week, we explore creator George Lucas’s connections to Hindu thought through Joseph Campbell and Transcendental Meditation, and the franchise’s themes of dharma, inner light, and spiritual struggle.

Week 4: Appreciation vs. Appropriation, Hindu Communities in America, and the Hindu Jesus

In our final session, we turn to contemporary conversations around the respectful adoption of Hindu practices. We’ll discuss how Hindu Americans navigate identity and representation, explore how Hindu thinkers like Yogananda have interpreted Jesus, and address the ongoing dialogue between spiritual appreciation and cultural appropriation in a pluralistic society.

Optional Reading:
 Hinduism in America: A Convergence of Worlds by Jeffery D. Long, Ph.D. – an award-winning resource offering deeper insights into many of the themes discussed.

Program Format