Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - HUM 130 D100

Introduction to Religious Studies (3)

Class Number: 4343

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 14, 2024
    Sat, 12:00–2:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to concepts central to the academic study of religion, exploring various relevant methodologies. Provides a framework for understanding the many ways in which humans experience the phenomenon of the sacred through symbol, ritual, doctrine, and engagement, in a variety of religious traditions and cultures. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

‘Introduction to Religious Studies’, is both an introduction to the methods involved in the study of religion, and a survey of the major contours of the world’s major religious traditions. Through readings, group discussion and writing assignments we will explore the varieties of religious life.  

This course provides a framework for understanding the many ways in which human beings experience the Holy through story, practice, symbol, ritual and doctrine. It is also an exploration of the ways that religion is entangled with the worlds of culture, geography, society and politics.  

Starting with a history of the definitions, concepts and methods used in the study of religion we will define and problematize the term ‘religion.’ Then we will move into a survey of the major religious traditions of our contemporary world. We will conclude the course with a conversation about the relationship of religion with science, gender, feminism, politics, and the environment. We will also speculate on the future of religion in our complex and changing world. 

This course is offered in person. If you are interested in taking the asynchronous online version, see the OL01 section of HUM 130 which is offered during all three terms: Fall, Spring and Summer.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Define and problematize the terms religion and spirituality. 

  • Become familiar with the core methods employed in the study of religion. 

  • Become proficient in key concepts in the study of religions. 

  • Increase awareness of the world’s diverse religious traditions. 

  • Cultivate the ability to engage and understand the perspectives of various religious traditions on their own terms. 

  • Develop critical reading, critical thinking and writing skills. 

Grading

  • Midterm 30%
  • Final Exam or Reflective Final Essay 30%
  • Weekly Reading Reflections and Roundtable Discussion Questions 20%
  • Roundtable Discussion Summaries 20%

NOTES:

This course fulfills the Global Humanities requirements for the

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

  • Esposito, John L., Darrell J. Fasching, and Todd T. Lewis, World Religions Today. Seventh Edition only (Oxford University Press, 2022). Digital can be purchased at vitalsource.com

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.