Discover why religion is important for understanding and engaging with global challenges. Consider the ways religion affects personal and political decision-making. Religion not only influences personal behaviours and ethics, but it’s also relevant to international conflicts and domestic policy decisions. On this course, you will gain a broader understanding of why religion matters in society and in different cultures.
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You will understand the concepts of religious literacy and religious diversity, both within different societies and religious traditions themselves. You will also use case studies to explore Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and indigenous religious traditions in both historical and contemporary contexts.
What topics will you cover?
Week 1 introduces the idea of why religion and religious literacy matters.
Week 2 looks at how religion has changed and how it has been used to promote change.
Week 3 explores the relationships and differences between religion and culture. Reviews how religion and violence have developed.
Week 4 discusses (with examples) interactions with religious spheres outside your own.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Identify and describe the the principles of 'religious literacy'
- Reflect on the boundaries between religion and culture
- Evaluate the extent to which religion inspires ways of life including ethics, social activism and extremism
- Apply the principles of 'religious literacy' to case studies
- Develop confidence in interacting with those who have different beliefs and practices
