Religion, Culture, and Controversy provides students with an overview of methodologies for the study of religion (historical, anthropological, literary, etc.) through the exploration of contemporary issues, controversial topics, and themes in popular culture.

4 x one hour sessions per week (lecture/seminar varied) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 3pm over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

None

N/A

Examination (90 minute duration) - 50%
Essay (1,500 words) - 40%
Portfolio of 5 response papers of 200 words each - 10%

This course will provide the opportunity to: 

■ introduce students to the major approaches to the study of religion;

■ introduce students to some of the controversies concerning religion and contemporary culture;

■ develop students' understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of religion;

■ nurture the ability to ask independent questions and to experiment with original responses.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ identify and evaluate major methodological approaches to the study of religion ;

■ apply at least one of these approaches in an analysis of a religious text, practice, or controversy

■ engage in interdisciplinary inquiry in relation to religion and culture.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.