Religion, Christianity, and Spirituality

Religion, in general, and Christianity, in particular, have had an indelible influence in the lives of Americans, especially African Americans. Why? What common themes, beliefs, and rituals exist for these two cultural systems? How do they tend to be appropriated and understood? Moreover, how does spirituality manifest as a viable response? Research by seminal sociologist and community activist W.E.B. Du Bois and other scholars of race and racism will inform answers to these and other questions. The course will examine whether and how religion, Christianity, and spirituality influence the lives and quality of life of diverse groups. Special attention will be given to their usage by African Americans.