Religion: Interpretation of Religion (A)

About REL 2050 A

Examination of major theories and methods used in studying and interpreting religious phenomena. Prerequisite: Three hours in Religion.

Notes

Prerequisite: Three hours in Religion PACE students by permission and override.

Section Description

This course provides a critical survey of influential theories that impact how we might understand religion in the world around us. It will engage you in close primary readings and analysis of major themes in the comparative study of religion.

Rather than focusing on just the “founding fathers” of the field, this course spends significant time engaging theories composed by people from marginalized groups who have responded to those founding fathers, and changed the way religion is studied. Thus, over this term, you will get a good sense of theories that have had a strong grip on the study of religion for the past century and a half, and also an excellent set of alternative modes of study that have fundamentally impacted the field. As you study these theories, you will use our class time and assignments to explain, compare, and apply these theories, and finally to offer your own thoughts on how to study religion.

Section Expectation

This course is a seminar that will include both lecture and active participation in discussion. Students are expected to have read and annotated texts before class, and come prepared to discuss materials with professor and colleagues.

Evaluation

Grades will be based on exams, in-class work, essays, and participation.

Important Dates

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

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