Overview

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:

HUM 130: ‘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 and entering into the many ways in which human beings experience the Holy through story, practice, symbol, ritual and doctrine. It is also an exploration into the ways that religion breaks into the everyday world of society and politics. Starting with a history of the 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 traditions of the world. We will conclude the course with broader conversations about the relationship between religion, science, gender, feminism, politics and the environment. We will also speculate on the future of religion in a complex and changing world.

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 our literacy 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, facilitation and writing skills.

Grading

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

REQUIRED READING NOTES: