Introduction to religious studies 3600-7-RAABI4-IRS(Z)
During the course students will be introduced to the nature and characteristics of religious studies as a field of research, to basic concepts and their definitions, and to the history of research in the field. Areas of interest in the study of religion and its sub-disciplines will be presented.
Issues addressed during the class will include:
- what is religion?
- definitions of religion
- research on religions - historical background
- key approaches to the study of religions: theory of religion, theology, philosophy of religion, general religious studies, sociology of religion, history of religion, psychology of religion, comparative religious studies
- typology of religious phenomena in the context of the triple division into doctrinal, cultural and organizational aspects.
Type of course
Mode
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
The graduate:
-acquires detailed knowledge (including terminology, theory and methodology) in the field of religious studies
- use his/her religious studies knowledge in solving problems related to cultural diversity based on a different worldview in professional situations
- formulate his/her own opinions and conclusions in English in spoken and written form at least on the B2+ level
- conduct a dialogue about dissimilarity resulting from cultural, religious and philosophical diversity and its impact on the shaping of social and political attitudes and economic processes
- accept responsibility for teaching religion, with particular emphasis on Buddhism and Islam
Assessment criteria
- continuous assessment – 20%
- attendance control – 10%
- final written exam– 70%
Bibliography
"The Oxford Handbook of the Study of Religions", Michael Stausberg and Steven Engler (ed.), Oxford 2016.
"The Routledge Companion to the Study of Religion", John R. Hinnels (ed.), London-New York 2010.
"The Routledge Handbook of Research Methods in the Study of Religion", Michael Stausberg, Steven Engler (ed.), London-New York 2011.
Jacques Waardenburg, "Classical Approaches to the Study of Religion: Aims, Methods, and Theories of Research. Introduction and Anthology", Berlin-Boston 2017.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: