Approaches to the Study of Religion

3 credits

This course explores some of the more influential modern theories about why human beings - across different cultures and in different historical periods - have practiced religion and believed in supernatural entities. The class will focus on explanations for the origin and existence of religion that have developed in the social sciences and humanities from the 19th century to the present, and will examine their strengths and weaknesses. Students will learn the basics of social, cultural, cognitive, and psychological approaches to religion. No specific background knowledge of individual religious traditions is required. ***Prerequisite: Completion of 12 credit hours or RLST 100.*** *Note: Students may receive credit for one of RLST 202 or RLST 300.*