Schedule of Classes

Survey of human values and religious experiences found in major religions of the world.

A comprehensive introduction to the major divisions of Christian churches throughout history. The course explores Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, and many forms of Protestantism through three historical periods: ancient, medieval, and modern.

An introductory course on the history, beliefs, ethics, rituals, and practices of Judaism. The course also examines modern forms of Judaism, particularly in the United States and Israel.

Introduction to the Islamic Civilization of the Middle East, including primary literature produced by Muslims and members of other religious communities living under the aegis of Islam, from the seventh century to the present.

An overview of both theory and method in the psychological study of religion. Emphasis will be on understanding the biological and psychological underpinnings of religious belief, behavior, and experience. Cross listed as PSY 280.

Human values relevant to contemporary life found in ancient writings of Judaism and Christianity.

Historical and theoretical analysis of the modern crisis in relations between the Arab Islamic world and the West. Examines the modern rise of nation-states, Western imperialism, and Islamic "undamentalism" in the Middle East.

Historical and cultural study of the religions of India, Southeast Asia, and China.

Historical and cultural survey of religion in Japan, primarily Buddhism and Shinto. Folk religion, Chinese influences, and the New Religions.

Topics of special interest which may vary each time course is offered. Topic stated in current Schedule of Classes.

Primarily for undergraduate RLS majors: comprehensive and integrated survey of the discipline at an advanced level; projects in special areas.