Religion: Religion and Secular Culture

Comparison of religious and secular systems of meaning, value, and practice. Prerequisite: Nine hours in Religion.

Pre reqs: 9 hours in Religion PACE students by permission and override.

On the surface, the difference between Religion and the Secular is obvious. The secular is where there is no religion. UVM is a secular university, the legal system is secular and not governed by religion, and religious institutions in the United States do not pay property taxes. In this class we will interrogate the assumption of difference between religion and the secular in the US, Asia, and other parts of the world (including Vermont!). The definition of religion – of course – is part of this discussion, but especially how what counts as religion and non-religion enables and constrains people’s lives. In order to do this, we will examine a few different case studies that examine religion and the legal system, “spirituality”, nationalism and other social forms that may or may not be recognized as religious.

The course is a seminar. Students are required to read materials before class (1-2 hours worth) and be prepared to discuss them in class. Readings will come from books and journal articles that will either be available for purchase or through Brightspace.

The grade for this class will depend on papers and class discussion. There will be a research paper, and presentations.