Course Description, Introduction, Approach

This course is an introduction to the various aspects of religion in human experience. The study will include basic elements such as the nature of the sacred, religious texts, myth, ritual and religious experience. There will also be an emphasis upon the relationship between religion and society as well as a look at some important religious issues. Concepts will be illustrated with examples from the major world religions.

The class will utilize a combination of discussions, lectures, films, special speakers and optional field trips to observe religious communities. A special feature will be the use of the extensive Religious Studies resources available on the Internet and the World Wide Web.