PHIL 2200 - Introduction to Comparative Religion

4.5 Credits

Students investigate the spiritual and historical complexities of indigenous and organized religions. Students examine rituals, symbols, myths, allegories, and sacred texts to discover fundamental shared values. Students explore the historical, ethical, social, and economic impact of religions on global cultures. Students acquire a greater respect for the diversity and value of religions with the expectant outcome of increased empathy and tolerance.

Recommended: College or business level reading comprehension and writing skills recommended prior to the course but not required.

Lecture Hours: 4.5
Lab Hours: 0.0
Internship Hours: 0.0
Clinical or Practicum Hours: 0.0

Course Objectives

Apply major approaches to the study of religion (functional, phenomenological, and faith based) in the exploration of defining religion.
Identify religion as the system in order to cross-culturally compare various existing religions: beliefs (object of belief), practices (rituals), exegesis (sacred texts, written cannon, myths, symbols), faith (the personal encounter relevant to a believer) and analyze major religious patterns–indigenous religions, salvation based religions-Zoroastrianism and Religions of the Book, Eastern Religions, and the new religious movements and/or spirituality.
Explain what is meant by worldview analysis and apply this analysis in describing and understanding the major religious worldviews presented in this class.
Compare the functioning of religious communities in a pluralistic society (instructional materials or visit to a local religious community, attend lectures, and other college/community resources).
Study and compare various dimensions of religious experiences, including the mythic, ritual, doctrinal, ethical, and communal religious interactions.
Research a specific religious expression in an academic manner.
Demonstrate the ability to express orally and in written essay forms a clear understanding of an aspect of a particular religious worldview.

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