Introduction to Psychologies of Religion

Catalog description

This course will act as an overview of the many ways that religious and spiritual beliefs can and do influence our daily lives, including an individual's attitudes, motivations, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors (and vice versa). We will explore concepts of religion and various religious perspectives as they relate to psychology, and the social and cultural implications of religion. The focus of this course will not be on any religious affiliation in particular, but instead on how people view religion and spirituality and use those beliefs in both positive and negative ways. Do not expect that we will answer such questions as "Does God exist" or "Which religion is right?" This is not what the course is about. We will, however, explore the psychological factors related to believing, or not believing, in "God" and to following particular religious traditions. The course mostly involves mini-lectures, presentations, quizzes, readings, and seminar-based classroom discussions, and some videos. You will be strongly encouraged to think about and share your opinions, beliefs, and experiences. By the end of the course you will have an increased understanding of the complexity, richness and psychological basis for religious beliefs and behaviors, be better able to understand your own religious life, explore the importance of religious phenomena for the field of psychology, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a psychological approach to studying and interpreting religion, and understand the interaction of personal and social dimensions of religion. Hopefully students will also think more critically about how religious and spiritual beliefs influence actions in their everyday lives.