Seminar in Philosophy of Religion

Catalog description

This course builds on its precursor ( PHIL 124 ) to provide a deeper perspective on specific topics and issues, typically through discussion of classical or contemporary writings by recognized philosophers of religion. Though the course will typically focus on one or a few selected questions, these may range as broadly as the field itself, for example: how and to what extent is religious faith compatible with reason, scientific rationality, and our knowledge of history? Are there universal types of religious experience and what is their human value and objective significance? Are religion and morality mutually independent or does one rest on or constrain the other? Arguments concerning the existence of God, the interaction between religion, society, and politics, and religious pluralism are further possible topics. Beyond gaining familiarity with canonical texts and honing their skills as critical readers and writers, students will find opportunities to reflect both on religion¿s historical, social, and moral significance as a dimension of human life, and on the specific challenges it raises.