Time Schedule:
Charles L. Richter
CHID 380
Seattle Campus
Study of religion as a general human phenomenon. Manner in which different methods of inquiry (phenomenology, anthropology, sociology, psychology, literary criticism, archaeology, philosophy, theology) illuminate different aspects of religion and shape our conceptions of its nature. Recommended: JSIS B 201 or JSIS B 202. Offered: jointly with JSIS B 380.
Class description
The first part of the course will deal with the history of studying religion as a discipline, covering the major figures and theorists in areas such as anthropology, sociology, psychology, and economics. We will address the many ways in which the academy has attempted to describe the phenomenon of religion, as well as the problem of defining religion itself The remainder of the course will introduce newer theories on religion and religion's intersections with other social phenomena.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
