AP/RLST 3803 3.00

Methods in the Study of Religion

Explores the key approaches to the study of religion through an examination of various methodologies. Working through well-known case studies, students investigate a variety of approaches in practice to explore how questions of method shape our broader understanding of religious traditions. This course explores key disciplinary approaches in the study of religion to understand how the choice of method shapes one’s understanding of beliefs, rituals, everyday practices and religious meaning in general. We begin by asking questions about the value and significance of the term “religion,” which is neither self-evident nor easily defined. The course examines different disciplinary perspectives that inform the ways in which religion is approached, understood and conceptualized, while providing an opportunity for students to appreciate the complex role religion plays in today’s world at many levels of social, cultural and political action. Finally, the course offers an overview of the field of “Religious Studies” in terms of its historical and methodological scope, and examines its implications and challenges in light of many current issues such as secularism, spirituality, fundamentalism, globalization, minority and gender rights, and others.

RELIGIOUS TRADITION(S) COVERED: Multiple

Course Category: Required Courses