Religion and Culture

Catalog description

This course explores the complex interplay between religion and culture across diverse societies and historical periods. Through readings and discussions grounded in anthropology, sociology, history and religious studies, the course investigates how religious ideas, practices, and institutions influence and are influenced by cultural traditions, identities, and perspectives. The course will use themes such as ritual, symbolism, mythology, witchcraft, magic, syncretism, science to explore belief and spirituality outside the limits of organized religions. Keywords: Religion, spirituality, belief systems