Contemp Philosophy of Religion

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Philosophy of religion is the branch of philosophy devoted to philosophical reflection on the nature of religion, and is variously practiced by philosophers, theologians, and scholars of religion of all religious persuasions (or lack thereof). This course examines selected topics and works in contemporary philosophy of religion, with a special focus on such topics as natural theology, religious epistemology, the relationship between religion and morality, religious diversity or pluralism, comparative philosophy of religion, and the challenges posed by naturalism and secularism to religious belief. The course has two basic aims. The first is to acquaint you with some of the most significant and influential developments in 20th and 21st century philosophy of religion, and in the process to deepen your understanding of the issues, arguments, and motives that have driven those developments. The second aim, in turn, is to help you practice and refine your analytical thinking and writing skills, which are two core features of a liberal arts education