PHIL 304 - Religion Today and Tomorrow

Institution:

Westminster College (Salt Lake City)

Subject:

Philosophy

Description:

Course Description: this course will focus on the pivotal and changing role that religion plays in the modern world. The material will be divided into three units I.The End of Religion as we know it: This section will cover the development of religion in the 20th century, religion from a global perspective (where religion is waxing and waning), New Religious Movements, religious extremism, increasing secularism (atheism and humanism), and progressive religion as well as those who identify as "spiritual but not religious", as well as the intersection of religion and politics. II.Reason and Religion, Reason for Religion: This unit will examine the function of religion from psychological, sociological, anthropological and philosophical, economic and political perspectives. What does religion do for us? How does it work exactly? III.Transcending Religion? This unit will incorporate insights gained from the previous sections to wrestle with the role of religion in today's world. What is the future of religion? How do we ethically critique religion (including an exploration of Moral Absolutism vs. Moral Relativism)? Is there a way to foster progressive forms of religion which maintain benefit while minimizing harm? Is there a way to gain the benefits of religion in a secular context? Students will help shape the content and emphasis of the course within these topical frameworks. Students will review pertinent scholarship and news sources and be able to select from a number of projects involving religious or non-religious communities or engage with projects such as religion in politics or the media.

Credits:

2.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.westminstercollege.edu

Phone Number:

(801) 484-7651

Regional Accreditation:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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