Religious Studies
Minor
Program Committee
Penny Gold, Religious Studies, co-chair
James Thrall, Religious Studies, co-chair (on leave Spring 2013)
Nancy Eberhardt, Anthropology/Sociology
Lance Factor, Philosophy
Danielle Fatkin, History
Gina Franco, English
Sue Hulett, Political Science
Duane Oldfield, Political Science
Brandon Polite, Philosophy
Natania Rosenfeld, English
William Young, Philosophy
The program in Religious Studies considers the critical role religion plays in human life by exploring contemporary and historic expressions of religious traditions, with an emphasis on understanding religion as a global phenomenon. Specific courses may chart the intersections of religion with literature, film, media, music, and art; probe political, philosophical, and psychological implications of religious thought and experience; or examine the development of religious institutions, texts, practices, and beliefs. 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 for 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
- Apply key terms and concepts common to the academic study of religion.