Why are religions so important in the U.S.? A majority of our population practices some form of religion - from Christianity to Judaism and Islam, from Hinduism to Buddhism and Sikhism, from Native American practices to Wicca and esoteric New Age religions. Concepts like spirituality, fundamentalism, atheism, pluralism, and tolerance are debated regularly in the public square. Religious ideas and practices affect all of our lives whether or not we are personally involved in a religion.
This course will introduce students to the huge diversity of religions in the U.S., and provide several analytical tools to use in thinking critically about religions, religious practice, and their role in American society, politics, and culture. It will also impart an understanding of the interdisciplinary field of religious studies and provide a foundation for addressing questions pertaining to religions across several disciplines.
Lib Ed: Arts/Humanities