Detailed course offerings (Time Schedule) are available for
TRELIG 105 Introduction to Religious Studies (5) SSc/A&H
Introduces students to the 'data,' including objects, places, texts, music, and rituals, foundational for the academic study of religion, beginning with a critical discussion of the problem of defining 'religion'. Recommended that students complete this course before taking TRELIG 210 and TRELIG 321.
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TRELIG 210 Modern Theories of Religion (5) SSc
Examines intellectual questions raised by thinkers such as Darwin, Marx, and Freud which were complemented by social and political movements to privatize religion. Considers both the intellectual and social transformation of religion in the modern Western milieu. Examines the contrasting situation in less secular non-Western societies.
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TRELIG 310 Religious Diversity in America (5) SSc, DIV
Examines the pluralities of religions in modern American, introducing the history, sociology, and beliefs of Buddhists, Christians, and Muslims in the United States. Discusses problems of solutions to human dilemmas, the nature of ultimate reality, and the role of its founder from the perspective of each of these religions.
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TRELIG 321 Comparative Religion (5) SSc
Examines comparative approaches to religious experience and belief with emphasis on conceptual issues such as ritual, symbolism, identity, ecstatic experience, and revitalization movements in the context of globalization. Addresses criteria of both similarity and difference in the comparative work.
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TRELIG 333 Buddhist Thought (5) SSc
Explores key teachings of the Buddha. Investigates the "Three Jewels" of the Buddha, the Dharma (the Buddha's teachings), and the Sangha (the Buddhist Community) and applies the teachings to daily life.
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TRELIG 345 Christian Thought and Ethical Practice (5) SSc
Provides a systematic introduction to key concepts in Christianity by looking at their application to contemporary ethical problems. Explores these concepts with readings while also providing a platform for thinking about larger themes in ethical and social theory, which are broader interest for those outside of religious studies.
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TRELIG 350 Philosophy, Religion, and the Environment (5) SSc/NSc
Examines the value of nature and whether it is socially constructed or objectively existing. Considers how our philosophical and religious worldviews affect the way we value ourselves and our environment - including perspective from diverse traditions.
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TRELIG 365 Hinduism and Buddhism (5) SSc
Examines Hinduism and Buddhism, two of the world's most ancient religious traditions - both originated in India, and claim well over half a billion followers in the modern world. Presents the radically different (from conventional Western) perspectives they offer on the context and meaning of human existence.
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TRELIG 366 Islam (5) SSc
Investigates the history and forms of Islam, the predominant religion of the Middle East. Particular attention devoted to understanding values, views, and assumptions that are often quite different from those familiar in the secular societies of the West.
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TRELIG 467 Philosophy of Religion (5, max. 10) SSc
Examines selected topics in the philosophy of religion from a particular religious tradition. Focuses on arguments for the existence of God; the problem of evil; atheism; faith; religious experience and revelation; the attributes of God; miracles; immorality; and the relation between religion and morality. May be repeated with instructor permission. Course equivalent to: PHIL 467.
View course details in MyPlan: TRELIG 467