Politics & Religion in the United States ((3))

Catalog description

Though we often hear that there is a separation between church and state, and a rise of the "Nones," (individuals who do not formally affiliate with a faith tradition) religion has long been an influence in the American political process. In this course, we critically evaluate the role of religion in politics. We will examine how religion has impacted American political leadership, policy, elections, government institutions, and legal outcomes. In doing so, we analyze the roles of both civil and traditional religion in America's ever- increasing pluralistic society. We analyze how, when, and if religion and politics should mix and the impact and consequences on the democratic process. Furthermore, students will examine how increased religious pluralism has revolutionized how religion is thought about in this country and its implication for social and political outcomes. In this course, we will also discuss survey research regarding individuals and religious organizations within the United States and how religion shapes their political identity and behavior. We also consider how race, minority religious groups, and female leadership in faith traditions brings forth tension between personal and institutional authority and how this dynamic impacts issues of political influence among the laity. Overall, this course provides an examination of various theories of religion and politics, its influence, limitations, challenges, and impact on the American political system.