Religious Studies

Minor

Program Committee
Penny Gold, History, co-chair
Jim Thrall, Religious Studies, co-chair
Nancy Eberhardt, Anthropology/Sociology
Lance Factor, Philosophy
Gina Franco, English
Sue Hulett, Political Science
Duane Oldfield, Political Science, On-Site Director, Buenos Aires Program, Fall 2011
William Young, Philosophy

Courses in the Religious Studies Program consider the critical role religion plays in human life by:

• exploring major religious traditions as global phenomena
• charting the intersections of religion with cultural expressions of literature, film, media, music, and art
• probing political, philosophical, and psychological implications of religious thought and experience
• tracing the historical development of religious institutions, practices and beliefs
• examining the origins and ongoing influences of religious scriptures

With cross-listing in departments and programs of History, Philosophy, Psychology, Political Science and International Relations, English, American Studies, Asian Studies, and Film Studies, courses in Religious Studies draw on a wide variety of scholarly disciplines and methodologies.

Given the importance of religion to understanding the modern world we live in, taking courses or pursuing a minor in Religious Studies is an excellent complement to any major. Students completing a minor will learn to analyze the role of religion in human societies of both ancient and modern worlds; trace the historical development of religious institutions, texts, practices, and beliefs; explain key similarities and differences in a variety of religious traditions; engage respectfully and critically with the religious backgrounds and assumptions of others as well as their own; and apply key terms and concepts common to the academic study of religion.

Requirements for the Minor

Religious Studies Course Descriptions