The role of religious groups in the American political system.
Attention given to both mass and elite behavior. Denominational
differences with regard to politics are considered.
Athena Title
Religion and American Politics
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in POLS 4690E, POLS 4690H
Prerequisite
POLS 1101 or POLS 1101E or POLS 1101H or POLS 1101S
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will study the diversity of religious life in American politics.
Students will understand the participatory and electoral consequences of religious activity in American politics.
Students will understand the historical role of religion in American politics.
Students will improve critical thinking and communication skills by considering various political perspectives and communicating those views effectively, individually, and as a class.
Topical Outline
I. The History Legacy
II. The Major Traditions
III. The Politics of Organized Religious Groups
IV. Voting and Religion
V. Religion and Political Elites
VI. The Christian Right and American Politics
VII. African American Religion and Politics
VIII. Women, Religion, and Politics
IX. The Politics of Small Religious Groups
X. Religion and the Legal System
