SO240 Religion in Society

This course is an introduction to the sociological study of religion. Religion is one of the most powerful, deeply felt, and influential forces in human society. The course examines the meanings that religious practice and values have for individual believers, and studies the dynamic interplay of religion with other aspects of society. Using examples primarily from America, Europe and the Middle East with emphasis on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the course focuses on the how religion is constituted and politically managed in the context of secular, modern societies and how people are remaking religion in new ways to meet their needs for meaning. Addresses GLE Learning Outcomes Social Sciences (SS), Inquiry and Analysis (IA) and Critical Reading (CR).