THEORY AND METHOD IN THE STUDY OF RELIGION

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the major theories and methods used in the study of religion. In so doing, this module critically assesses a range of historical, anthropological, and scientific approaches to religious phenomena.The broader objectives of instruction are: to develop the capacity to think historically and critically about religious phenomena; to improve students’ capacity to read diverse types of religious sources. The attainment of these objectives equips the student with an academically informed understanding of the study of religion.

I. Knowledge and Understanding

o Know how to analyze scholarly texts that are important for the history of the religion.
o Become acquainted with the academic terminology in the study of religion.
o Know the basic historical development of the study of religion.

II. Ability to Apply Knowledge and Understanding

o Know how to apply the hermeneutical, theoretical, and methodological principles necessary to analyze religious writings.
o Know how to articulate the basic history of the study of religion.
o Know how to engage critically with the most important academic works in religious studies.
o Know how to integrate texts and material objects into the study of religion.

There are not any prerequisites for this course.

The course will address the major texts, themes, and terms pertaining to the academic study of religion, with particular attention to those drawn from anthropology, history, and sociology.

G. D. Chryssides and A. R. Whitehead, eds., Contested Concepts in the Study of Religion: A Critical Exploration (London: Bloomsbury, 2023).

K. J. Christiano, W. H. Swatos, and P. Kivisto, eds. Sociology of Religion: Contemporary Developments (4th ed.; Walnut Creek, CA: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2025).

Other teaching materials will be distributed in class or online.

The learning of course content will be assessed through an oral exam. The exam will be based on course readings, lectures, and seminar discussions.

oral

Regarding the grading scale, scores will be assigned according to the following schema:
A. Scores in the 18-22 range will be awarded in the presence of: Sufficient knowledge and applied comprehension of the course;
B. Scores in the 23-26 range will be awarded in the presence of: Fair knowledge and applied comprehension of the course;
C. Scores in the 27-30 range will be awarded in the presence of: Good or excellent knowledge and applied comprehension of the course;
D. Honors will be awarded in the presence of excellent knowledge and applied comprehension of the course.

The course consists of readings, lectures, and seminar work.