Religion as a Social Force

Course NameReligion as a Social Force
Course CodeREL271
DescriptionWhether we like it or not, religion colors the world around us, the way we live socially. Even in the secular, “post-religious” West, religion makes its presence felt, sometimes in unexpected ways. Because religious belief and practice goes to the core of what it means to be human, what we hold most precious, it necessarily affects the way we live together – it is a social force. Conversely, the way we live together affects the shape of religious belief and practice. If we want to live together with understanding, we need to account for the role of religion. How are we to understand the relationship between religion and society, religion and culture?
Learning OutcomesUpon completion of this course, students should be able to:
– Comprehend and have a clear understanding of the theories of major figures who have influenced the ways scholars think about religion in the social sciences;
– Critically analyze the perspectives of these theorists;
– Have a nuanced understanding of critical issues regarding religion and social life;
– Be able to communicate a coherent perspective about these issues.
SchoolThe School of Humanities & Social Sciences
LevelBachelor / Master
Number of credits (US / ECTS)3 US / 6 ECTS
PrerequisitesHSS600