In addition, we will also briefly cover African Religions, Native American Religions, Jainism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto and Zoroastrianism. At the end of the course we will take a look at some new religious traditions which are still developing.

The methods used in the course will be:

1. Historical-Examining the beginning of each religion and the major points in its history and development.
2. Phenomenological-Focusing upon the basic elements including beliefs, rituals and practices. A primary goal will be to attempt to understand each religion from the point of view of the people within that particular religious tradition. What is their world view? How do they understand themselves?
3. Comparative-Observing the similarities and differences between the religions as a way of better understanding them and religion itself as a part of human experience.

The course will utilize a combination of discussions, lectures, films and computer media. The course will utilize a combination of discussions, lectures, films, possible optional field trips to observe religious communities and online discussion. An important feature will be the use of the resources available for the study of World Religions on the internet.