Course Description
Theories, methodologies, and issues involved in the academic study of religion. This course is required of graduate students in religion and open to students in other departments.
Athena Title
Theory and Method in Religion
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. Explore the category of religion and the academic study of it. 2. Comprehend a representative number of methodologies or approaches to the study of religion. 3. Gain an understanding of a variety of sub-fields of religious study. 4. Acquire an in-depth understanding of some of the major issues and problems involved in the academic study of religion. 5. Acquire or increase appreciation for the scope of and variety in the field of religion.
Topical Outline
I. Considering the Etymology and Popular Usage of “Religion” II. Early Theories of Religion I: Philosophy and Language III. Early Theories of Religion II: Mythology and Structure IV. Social Theories of Religion V. Economic Theories of Religion VI. Neurological Theories of Religion VII. Psychological Theories of Religion VIII. Anthropological Theories of Religion IX. History of Religion: Old and New X. Postmodern Turn and Religion XI. Decolonizing Religion XII. Current Debates in the Field of Religion
Syllabus