Philosophy and Religious Studies
Philosophy - Undergraduate Study
Philosophy tries to make sense of human experience and reality through critical reflection and argument. The questions it treats engage and provoke all of us, and they occupy an important place in our intellectual tradition: Are there objective standards for deciding what is right and wrong, or is morality merely a subjective matter? Is capitalism morally acceptable? Do I have a will, and is it free? How do my words and thoughts come to be about the world? Does God exist? Can machines think? How are mind and body related? Students in philosophy classes will be exposed to arguments on both sides of such questions, and they will be encouraged to develop and rationally defend their own positions.
Philosophy is not an isolated discipline. It enjoys mutually beneficial exchanges with many fields of study within the humanities and sciences. Philosophers develop tools that allow them to examine critically the assumptions and implications of the social and natural sciences, religion, and law.
The study of philosophy provides several benefits. It emphasizes rigorous understanding of problems, together with careful analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the available solutions. It encourages clarity in the presentation of one’s own ideas, as well as sensitivity in the consideration of the ideas of others. The study of philosophy therefore encourages one to develop skills and habits that are useful not only in philosophy, but in other areas as well. Philosophy students historically do well, for example, in law and medical schools.
However, one should not think that philosophy is only valuable in academic settings. Philosophical questions arise in many areas of family, business, and civic life. Philosophers strive to face these questions with the kind of intellectual honesty that leads to respect for the views of others, and continual reassessment of their own. In this way, the study of philosophy fosters values and attitudes that are helpful for responding to a lifetime of intellectual challenges.
The degree program in philosophy requires a minimum of 33 credits, plus the zero credit PHIL 492 course. The following courses compose the core program of the major from which 15 credits shall be chosen. Additionally, two courses at the 400 level or above (other than PHIL 490 and PHIL 492) are required.
Ethical theory: One course required.
| PHIL 330 | Ethical Theory | 3 |
| PHIL 335 | Social and Political Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 535 | Contemporary Political Philosophy | 3 |
History: Two courses required.
| PHIL 310 | Ancient Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 314 | 17th Century Philosophy | 3 |
| or PHIL 315 | 18th Century Philosophy | |
Metaphysics and Epistemology: One course required.
| PHIL 364 | Metaphysics: God, Minds, and Matter | 3 |
| PHIL 366 | Truth, Belief and Reason | 3 |
| PHIL 380 | Philosophy of Science | 3 |
Logic:
PHIL 207 Introduction to Symbolic Logic is required.
Minor in Philosophy
The department offers a minor in philosophy which may be earned by completing a total of 15 credits in philosophy. At least 9 credits must be in courses numbered 300 or above. Students may want to emphasize specific areas by taking 15 hours of courses chosen from the following:
Philosophy of Science:
| PHIL 201 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 206 | Introduction to Logic and Scientific Reasoning | 3 |
| or PHIL 207 | Introduction to Symbolic Logic | |
| PHIL 314 | 17th Century Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 315 | 18th Century Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 380 | Philosophy of Science | 3 |
| PHIL 381 | Philosophy of the Social and Behavioral Sciences | 3 |
| PHIL 480 | Controversies in Science | 3 |
| PHIL 483 | Philosophy of Biology | 3 |
| PHIL 485 | Philosophy of Physics | 3 |
History of Philosophy:
| PHIL 201 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 310 | Ancient Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 314 | 17th Century Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 315 | 18th Century Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 316 | 19th Century Continental Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 317 | 20th and 21st Century Continental Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 318 | 20th and 21st Century Anglo-American Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 460 | Epistemology and Metaphysics | 3 |
Law, Social Values and Policy:
| PHIL 230 | Moral Theory and Practice | 3 |
| PHIL 235 | Ethical Issues in A Diverse Society | 3 |
| PHIL 331 | Moral Problems in Medicine | 3 |
| PHIL 332 | Philosophy of Law | 3 |
| PHIL 333 | Family Ethics | 3 |
| PHIL 335 | Social and Political Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 336 | Bioethics and Biotechnology | 3 |
| PHIL 338 | Feminist Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL 343 | Philosophy of Technology | 3 |
| PHIL 430 | Value Theory | 3 |
| PHIL 535 | Contemporary Political Philosophy | 3 |
Communication Proficiency requirement: The department requires a grade of C or better in each of ENGL 150 and ENGL 250 (or ENGL 250H), and approval of writing by instructor of any philosophy course 300 level or above, to be designated by the student.
Religious Studies - Undergraduate Study
Religious studies gives students the opportunity to investigate and reflect on the world's religions in an objective, critical, and appreciative manner. Though there is emphasis in religious studies on the wide variety of religious phenomena as well as on the various methods in the study of religion, the aim is to help students develop their own integrated understanding of the nature of religion and its role in individual and social life.
Graduates of the religious studies program have knowledge of the religious diversity in the United States and the world. They have the ability to interpret religion empathetically and critically and to compare and contrast historical and contemporary differences and similarities of religious systems. They understand ways in which religion influences and is influenced by the historical, social, and cultural contexts in which religious systems function. Graduates often pursue careers in non-profit, community organizations; apply to professional schools or graduate programs; or enter seminaries to prepare for ministry.
The program provides students with the following opportunities: to major or minor in religious studies, to fulfill group requirements, to take religious studies courses that are integrated into another major, to take religious studies courses as electives, and to develop an interdisciplinary studies major. (See the professor in charge of the religious studies program for advice.)
The major in religious studies seeks to provide both breadth and depth. Breadth is provided through the exploration of the world's various religious traditions and through exposure to a variety of theoretical approaches and methodologies in the academic study of religion. Depth is achieved through specialized courses in particular religious traditions and particular issues in the study of religions, culminating in research seminars. The objective is to expose the student to various components of the discipline of Religious Studies and by doing so develop skills that are valuable in a number of careers and that provide the necessary foundation for pursuing graduate studies.
Students who select Religious Studies as a major usually do so with an interest in complementing another major. An inherently interdisciplinary field, Religious Studies is an ideal complement for another liberal arts major but can also complement other fields, such as natural sciences, business, and education.
Students pursuing a major in religious studies must complete a minimum of 33 credits, including the following requirements:
| RELIG 205 | Introduction to World Religions | 3 |
| or RELIG 210 | Religion in America | |
| Two courses from Bible or Western Religions | ||
| Introduction to the Bible | ||
| History of Christianity: Beginnings to the Reformation | ||
| History of Christianity: The Reformation to the Present | ||
| Introduction to Catholicism | ||
| Old Testament | ||
| RELIG 322 | New Testament | 3 |
| RELIG 333 | Introduction to Judaism | 3 |
| or RELIG 358 | Introduction to Islam | |
| One course from Asian Religions | 3 | |
| Religious Traditions of India | ||
| Religious Traditions of China | ||
| One course from Religion, Culture and Society | 3 | |
| Christianity and Science | ||
| African American Religious Experience | ||
| Women and Religion | ||
| Religion and U.S. Latino/a Literature | ||
| Goddess Religions | ||
| Social Dimensions of Religion | ||
| Catholic Social Thought | ||
| Buddhism | ||
| Required Courses | ||
| RELIG 475 | Seminar: Issues in the Study of Religion | 3 |
| RELIG 485 | Theory and Method in Religious Studies | 3 |
| Minimum of 12 credits of elective Religious Studies courses | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 33 | |
The program offers a minor that may be earned by completing a total of 15 credits in religious studies including either RELIG 205 Introduction to World Religions or RELIG 210 Religion in America. Nine hours must be in courses at the 300 level or above (no more than 3 hours of seminar and no more than 3 hours of independent study).
Communication Proficiency requirement: The department requires a grade of C or better in each of ENGL 150 Critical Thinking and Communication and ENGL 250 Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition (or ENGL 250H Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition: Honors), and requires one 300 level course in religious studies in which writing is evaluated as acceptable.
Students may choose to do a senior thesis under the supervision of a religious studies faculty adviser. This option may earn 3-6 credits toward the completion of the major.
Philosophy - Graduate Study
The department offers work for a graduate minor in philosophy. For those taking the M.A. or M.S., the minor requirement is two courses above 300 (but not PHIL 490 each taken in conjunction with PHIL 590. For those taking the Ph.D., the requirement is four courses above 300, at least one of which is above 400 (but not PHIL 490) each taken in conjunction with PHIL 590. Interested students should ask the chair to assign a minor adviser.
The department participates in the interdepartmental program in general graduate studies. (See Index.)
Religious Studies - Graduate Study
The program offers courses for nonmajor graduate credit in religious studies as supporting work in other fields. Religious studies may also be one of the three areas used for the interdisciplinary graduate studies master's degree.
Philosophy Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
PHIL 201. Introduction to Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
It has been rumored that the unexamined life is not worth living. Philosophy is an attempt to begin examining life by considering such questions as: What makes us human? What is the world ultimately like? How should we relate to other people? Is there a god? How can we know anything about these questions? Understanding questions of this kind and proposed answers to them is what this course is all about.
PHIL 206. Introduction to Logic and Scientific Reasoning.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
Basic principles of critical reasoning and argument evaluation. A consideration of basic forms of argumentation in science and everyday life. Application to contemporary issues and controversies.
PHIL 207. Introduction to Symbolic Logic.
(Cross-listed with LING). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Introduction to fundamental logical concepts and logical symbolism. Development of natural deduction through first order predicate logic with identity. Applications to arguments in ordinary English and to philosophical issues. Linguistics majors should take LING/PHIL 207 as early as possible.
PHIL 230. Moral Theory and Practice.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
Investigation of moral issues in the context of major ethical theories of value and obligation; e.g., punishment, abortion, economic justice, job discrimination, world hunger, and sexual morality. Emphasis on critical reasoning and argument analysis.
PHIL 235. Ethical Issues in A Diverse Society.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
This course will examine a range of arguments on diversity issues. Topics will include: the social status of women, the moral status of sexuality and homosexuality, the nature and role of racism in contemporary society, the relationship between biology, gender roles and social status, and various proposals for change from a variety of political perspectives.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
PHIL 310. Ancient Philosophy.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Survey of ancient Greek philosophy, focusing on the pre-Socratics, Plato, and Aristotle. Questions concerning being, knowledge, language, and the good life are treated in depth.
PHIL 314. 17th Century Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Readings from philosophers such as Hobbes, Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, and Locke. Changing conceptions of knowledge, self, and deities in response to Galileo's new science and post-reformation challenge to ecclesiastical authority.
PHIL 315. 18th Century Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Readings from philosophers such as Berkeley, Hume, and Kant. Development of Enlightenment thought. Issues include idealism, causation, freedom, and knowledge regarding science, ethics, and deities.
PHIL 316. 19th Century Continental Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
The thought of Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche, and their contemporaries. Various perspectives on the philosophy of history, the nature of reason and subjectivity, the contrast between dialectical and nondialectical philosophy, and the relationship between philosophy and society.
PHIL 317. 20th and 21st Century Continental Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Major movements of 20th and 21st century thought, such as Phenomenology, Critical Theory, Post-structuralism, Postmodernism, and Feminism. Issues include the assumptions and limits of Western metaphysics, the nature of reason, the relationship between language and power.
PHIL 318. 20th and 21st Century Anglo-American Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Major movements in recent and contemporary philosophy such as realism, logical positivism, ordinary language philosophy, and naturalism. Russell, Wittgenstein, Quine and other leading figures. Topics include knowledge of the material world, mind, language, values, and philosophical method.
PHIL 320. Existentialism and Its Critics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
An investigation of Existentialism and its critics in historical and cultural context. Emphasis on existential phenomenology and French existentialism, and on criticisms. Existential Marxism and Heidegger's later philosophy.
PHIL 330. Ethical Theory.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or PHIL 230
Study of major theories of morality and the good life. Includes such topics as moral psychology, practical reasoning, and virtue theory.
PHIL 331. Moral Problems in Medicine.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PHIL 230 or junior classification
In-depth study of some of the central moral problems arising in medicine, e.g., abortion, euthanasia, patients' rights, health care professionals' duties and responsibilities, allocation of medical resources. Major moral theories will be examined and applied.
PHIL 332. Philosophy of Law.
(Cross-listed with CJ ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or PHIL 230
Extent of our obligation to obey the law; what constitutes just punishment; how much of the immoral should be made illegal? Relation of these questions to major theories of law and the state. Discussion of such concepts as coercion, equality, and responsibility.
PHIL 333. Family Ethics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy
Moral dimensions of marriage and love, parent-child relations, domestic work, and moral education. Can parents and children be friends? What do children "owe" their parents? Is there a feminist mode of moral thinking?.
PHIL 334. Environmental Ethics.
(Cross-listed with ENV S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy or junior classification
Thorough study of some of the central moral issues arising in connection with human impact on the environment, e.g., human overpopulation, species extinction, forest and wilderness management, pollution. Several world views of the proper relationship between human beings and nature will be explored.
PHIL 335. Social and Political Philosophy.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or PHIL 230
Foundations of social and political life. The basis of political organization, the nature of social and political institutions, rights and authority, justice. Original texts.
PHIL 336. Bioethics and Biotechnology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or PHIL 230 or PHIL 235
In-depth study of some central moral issues in the life sciences, e.g., genetic screening and testing, genetically engineered plants and animals, risk analysis, biotechnology patents, research ethics, biodiversity, the impact of biotechnology on society and the environment. Major moral theories will be discussed and applied. (PHIL 336 contains almost no similarities to PHIL 331.).
PHIL 338. Feminist Philosophy.
(Cross-listed with W S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy or women's studies recommended
A critical, theoretical examination of the oppression of women, especially as it relates to issues of race, class, and sexual orientation. How concepts such as sex and gender, self and other, nature and nurture, complicate our understanding of what it means to be a woman. Historical and contemporary feminist philosophers addressing topics such as violence, sexuality, pornography, political power, family structure and women's paid and unpaid labor.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
PHIL 340. Aesthetics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or PHIL 230
Is liking all there is to appreciating works of art or natural beauty? We will examine our appreciative experiences, talk about such experiences (e.g., art criticism), and what makes them valuable. Do the different arts have common values? How are their differences important?.
PHIL 343. Philosophy of Technology.
(Cross-listed with T SC). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.
Prereq: 6 credits of social science or T SC 341 and 3 credits of social science
Moral and other philosophical problems related to developments in technology. Topics may include conditions under which technological innovations contribute to human emancipation, relationship of technology and democracy, utility and limits of technical rationality, and problems of ensuring that benefits of technological advance are communally shared. Topics discussed with reference to such issues as contemporary developments in microelectronics, technology transfer to the Third World, etc.
PHIL 350. Philosophy of Religion.
(Cross-listed with RELIG). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
The value and truth of religious life and belief. Mystical experience; religious faith and language; arguments for God's existence; the problem of evil; miracles; and religion and morality. Historical and contemporary readings.
PHIL 364. Metaphysics: God, Minds, and Matter.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy
A survey of classical and contemporary views on some basic metaphysical issues. Issues discussed include: Does God exist? Do you have a mind and, if so, how does it relate to your body? What is the nature of cause and effect? Do objects have any essential properties? How can we account for properties objects have in common?.
PHIL 366. Truth, Belief and Reason.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or permission of instructor
This course focuses on significant topics in theory of knowledge, including the value of true beliefs, the role of sense experience in supporting our theoretical views, and the place of reason in human nature. Historical and contemporary views will be considered.
PHIL 380. Philosophy of Science.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or 6 credits in a science
Introduction to the philosophy of science. A variety of basic problems common to the natural and social sciences: the nature of explanation, the structure of theories, the unity of science, and the distinction between science and nonscience.
PHIL 381. Philosophy of the Social and Behavioral Sciences.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: PHIL 201 or 6 credits in the social sciences
Methodological, ideological, and doctrinal issues about the social and behavioral sciences against the background of influence of the natural sciences. Focus is on the historical and cultural background of 19th and 20th century western thought.
PHIL 398. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; junior classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing each work period.
PHIL 430. Value Theory.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. S.
Prereq: PHIL 230
Theoretical and normative issues in ethics, aesthetics, religious thought, or political philosophy. Topics vary each time offered.
PHIL 450. Persons and Causes.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 1 times. F.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy; PHIL 207 strongly encouraged
Personal identity, agency, free will, moral responsibility, causation, future contingents, and time will be discussed. What makes a person the same person over time? Do humans have free will? Are we not morally responsible if our actions are inevitable consequences of the past and the laws of nature? What distinguishes causes from non-causes? Are there facts about the future?.
PHIL 460. Epistemology and Metaphysics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. S.
Prereq: 6 credits in philosophy
Issues in epistemology and metaphysics. Topics vary each time offered.
PHIL 465. Brains, Minds, and Computers.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
Examination of concepts such as computability, intelligence, programming, and free will; and of arguments about whether any human capacity is forever beyond realization in a machine.
PHIL 480. Controversies in Science.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Repeatable. S.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy or 6 credits in a natural or social science
Philosophical treatment of a branch of science that has (or has had) significant social, political, religious and/or moral implications. Possible topics include: the IQ debate, implications of Darwinism, the Galileo affair, the role of values in science, critical analysis of current science policy (e.g., the Human Genome Project). Topics will be arranged to meet the needs of interested students. Often team taught by a philosopher and a scientist from the relevant discipline.
PHIL 483. Philosophy of Biology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 3 credits in philosophy or 3 credits in biology
Biology is powerful, both as a science and in its effects on our culture. Philosophy of biology evaluates this power. Possible topics include: What makes sciences such as evolutionary theory, ecology or molecular biology so good at explaining things? What is life? Can evolution account for design? What role does chance play in evolution? Has there been progress in the evolution of life on earth? What can sociobiology tell us about human nature, behavior and culture?.
PHIL 485. Philosophy of Physics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: 3 credits in Philosophy or 3 credits in Physics
S. Conceptual and philosophical issues relating to the interpretation of theories in classical and modern physics. May include one or more of the following topics: the relationship between mathematics and the physical world; Newtonian physics (determinism and predictability); thermodynamics and statistical physics (the nature of probability; entropy and the direction of time); relativistic physics (indeterminism; realism and nonlocality; consciousness and the role of the observer).
PHIL 490. Independent Study.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in philosophy; permission of instructor, approval of chair.
Guided reading and research on special topics selected to meet needs of advanced students.
No more than 9 credits of Phil 490 may be counted toward graduation.
PHIL 490H. Independent Study, Honors.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in philosophy; permission of instructor, approval of chair.
Guided reading and research on special topics selected to meet needs of advanced students.
No more than 9 credits of Phil 490 may be counted toward graduation.
PHIL 492. Graduating Senior Survey.
Cr. R.
F.S.
Prereq: Graduating senior
Final presentation for graduation and the future. Outcomes assessment activities.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
PHIL 496. Ecology and Society.
(Dual-listed with PHIL 596). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification in biological or environmental sciences/studies with at least one course in ecology
Analysis of conceptual and methodological debates in ecology. Historical development of competing research traditions and philosophies. Topics include i) methodological issues in ecological science, ii) conceptual issues in theoretical ecology, iii) conceptual issues in applied ecology, iv) relation of ecology to environmental and social issues.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
PHIL 535. Contemporary Political Philosophy.
(Cross-listed with POL S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: 6 credits of philosophy or political science
Examination of theories of justice proposed by contemporary political philosophers. Analysis of the philosophical foundations of perspectives such as liberalism, libertarianism, communitarianism, socialism, feminism. Normative assessments of socio-political institutions.
PHIL 548. Summer Bioethics Workshop for Teachers.
Cr. 1.
SS.
Topics include moral theory, pedagogical issues in teaching bioethics, and substantive current issues in bioethics.
PHIL 590. Special Topics in Philosophy.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in philosophy
PHIL 590A. Special Topics in Philosophy: History of Philosophy.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in philosophy
PHIL 590B. Special Topics in Philosophy: Epistemology and Metaphysics.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in philosophy
PHIL 590C. Special Topics in Philosophy: Value Theory.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in philosophy
PHIL 590D. Special Topics in Philosophy: Logic and Philosophy of Science.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in philosophy
PHIL 596. Ecology and Society.
(Dual-listed with PHIL 496). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification in biological or environmental sciences/studies with at least one course in ecology
Analysis of conceptual and methodological debates in ecology. Historical development of competing research traditions and philosophies. Topics include i) methodological issues in ecological science, ii) conceptual issues in theoretical ecology, iii) conceptual issues in applied ecology, iv) relation of ecology to environmental and social issues.
Religious Studies Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
RELIG 205. Introduction to World Religions.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
An introduction to the academic study of religions, including myths, beliefs, rituals, values, social forms. Examples chosen from oral cultures and major religions of the world.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 210. Religion in America.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
Introductory study of the major beliefs, practices, and institutions of American Judaism, Catholicism, Protestantism, and Islam with emphasis on the diversity of religion in America, and attention to issues of gender, race, and class.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
RELIG 220. Introduction to the Bible.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.
Basic overview of the contents of the Old and New Testament in light of their ancient socio-historical background, and with attention to a variety of interpretations and relevance to modern American society.
RELIG 242. History of Christianity: Beginnings to the Reformation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
A survey of the major historical developments in Christian thought and practice that shaped Christianity from the time of Jesus through the late medieval period. Attention given to significant persons and major events, including those involving relations with Judaism and Islam.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 243. History of Christianity: The Reformation to the Present.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
A survey of the major events, issues, and persons that contributed to the Protestant Reformation, the Catholic Counter-Reformation, and the proliferation of Christian denominations. Attention to selected responses of churches to major sixteenth-early twenty-first century developments.
RELIG 280. Introduction to Catholicism.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
An explanation of the beliefs, spirit, and practices of Roman Catholicism, including its understanding of God, sacramentality, the human person, and community, and its relationship to other forms of Christianity and other world religions.
RELIG 321. Old Testament.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
An in-depth study of the literature and religion of ancient Israel in light of recent archaeological discoveries, research about the ancient Near East, and a variety of interpretations.
RELIG 322. New Testament.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
A detailed survey of the sacred scriptures of Christianity in light of recent archaeological discoveries and historical research about their Greco-Roman and Jewish background.
RELIG 323. Science and Religion.
(Cross-listed with HIST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Sophomore classification
History of changing interplay of science and religion in our understanding nature, from the trial of Galileo to the reception of Darwin.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 324. Christianity and Science.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: BIOL 101, or another science course taught at ISU
Examines major challenges to Christianity's understandings of creation posed by the sciences; attention given to the relations of Christianity and science, and to Christianity’s responses to ecological issues.
RELIG 328. American Indian Religions.
(Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
An introduction to the beliefs and rituals of Native American religious traditions, with attention to cultural and historical contexts and implications.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
RELIG 333. Introduction to Judaism.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
An introduction to basic Judaism. Special attention is given to Jewish sacred texts, rituals, social practices, and modern forms.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 334. African American Religious Experience.
(Cross-listed with AF AM). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Prior course work in Religious Studies or African American Studies recommended
Examination of African-American experience from the perspective of black religion with attention to political, economic, social, theological and artistic expressions, including music, that serve the life of African-American communities.”.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
RELIG 336. Women and Religion.
(Cross-listed with W S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: RELIG 205, RELIG 210 or W S 201 recommended
Examines the status of women in various religions, feminist critiques of religious structures and belief systems, and contemporary women's spirituality movements.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
RELIG 340. Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion.
(Dual-listed with RELIG 540). (Cross-listed with ANTHR). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Survey of global religious belief and practice from an anthropological perspective. Emphasis on myth and ritual, shamanism, magic, witchcraft, beliefs in spirits, conceptions of the soul, mind and body relationships, and healing and therapeutic practices. Discussion of religious response to dramatic political and social change; effects of globalization on religious practice.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 342. Religion and U.S. Latino/a Literature.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
A study of the religious behavior and attitudes expressed in the literature of Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans and other groups of people living in the U.S. who trace their ancestry to the Spanish-speaking countries of Latin America.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
RELIG 348. Psychology of Religion.
(Cross-listed with PSYCH). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Nine credits in psychology
Survey of psychological theory and research investigating religious and spiritual attitudes, beliefs and practices.
RELIG 350. Philosophy of Religion.
(Cross-listed with PHIL). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHIL 201
The value and truth of religious life and belief. Mystical experience; religious faith and language; arguments for God's existence; the problem of evil; miracles; and religion and morality. Historical and contemporary readings.
RELIG 352. Religious Traditions of India.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Prior course work in World Religions or Anthropology required
Examines a variety of the religious traditions of India, including Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, Sikh, and South Asian Islamic traditions, through texts, practices, and media.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 355. Religious Traditions of China.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
The Religious Traditions of China. Chinese religious traditions in ancient and modern expression; indigenous forms of religious practice; development of high/deep traditions of Confucianism and Taoism; impact of religions such as Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity. Religious influences and changes in contemporary China.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 356. African Religions.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Prior course work in African, African-American or Religious Studies or Anthropology required
An introduction to the teachings, practices, and history of the religions that originated in Africa and other religions that have gained substantial followings among African peoples.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 358. Introduction to Islam.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
An introduction to Islamic religion, culture, and society from 700 to the present.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 360. Religious Ethics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Investigates different religious ethical theories and traditions of reasoning about practical moral issues (e.g., abortion, the just distribution of wealth, environmental ethics). Explores in detail the relationship between religious beliefs and moral practice.
RELIG 367. Christianity in the Roman Empire.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
An historical introduction to the rise of Christianity in the Roman empire, with special attention to the impact of Greco-Roman culture on the thought and practice of Christians and the interaction of early Christians with their contemporaries.
RELIG 370. Religion and Politics.
(Cross-listed with POL S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Sophomore classification.
The interaction of religion and politics in the U.S. from both an historical and contemporary perspective, as well as the role of religion in politics internationally.
RELIG 376. Classical Archaeology.
(Cross-listed with ANTHR, CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 376A. Classical Archeology: Bronze Age and Early Iron Age Greece.
(Cross-listed with ANTHR, CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Bronze Age (Minoan and Mycenaean palatial cultures) and Early Iron Age Greece. (ca 3000-700 BCE). Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 376B. Classical Archeology: Archaic through Hellenistic Greece (ca 700-30 BCE).
(Cross-listed with ANTHR, CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 377. Social Dimensions of Religion.
(Cross-listed with SOC). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Prior course work in Religious Studies recommended.
The influence of religion in society, both as a conservator of values and as a force for social change.
RELIG 380. Catholic Social Thought.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Examines biblical roots of and major developments in Catholic social thought. Contemporary issues such as human rights, economic justice, the environment, and war and peace will be treated using principles of Catholic ethics, social analysis, official church documents, and contributions of notable theologians and activists.
RELIG 384. Religion and Ecology.
(Cross-listed with ENV S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Introduction to concepts of religion and ecology as they appear in different religious traditions, from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Special attention to religious response to contemporary environmental issues.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 439. Goddess Religions.
(Cross-listed with W S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: RELIG 205 recommended
Exploration of the foundational myths of Goddess spirituality, including historical and cross-cultural female images of the divine and their modern usage by American women.
RELIG 453. Buddhism.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
The various Buddhist paths to realize enlightenment and freedom. Special attention to meditation and yoga and their relationship to altered states of consciousness and to social contexts.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 475. Seminar: Issues in the Study of Religion.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 6 times.
Prereq: 6 credits in religious studies
Topic changes each time offered. Closed to freshmen. Sophomores must have approval of instructor.
RELIG 485. Theory and Method in Religious Studies.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: 6 credits in Religious Studies or permission of instructor
Examines the variety of theories and methods employed in the study of religion. Application of these methods to various religions of the world.
RELIG 490. Independent Study.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in religious studies and permission of instructor, approval of chairman.
Guided reading and research on special topics selected to meet the needs of advanced students.
No more than 9 credits of Relig 490 may be counted toward graduation.
RELIG 490H. Independent Study: Honors.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in religious studies and permission of instructor, approval of chairman.
Guided reading and research on special topics selected to meet the needs of advanced students.
No more than 9 credits of Relig 490 may be counted toward graduation.
RELIG 491. Senior Thesis.
Cr. 3.
Written under the supervision of a Religious Studies faculty advisor.
RELIG 494. Special Studies in Religious Research Languages.
Cr. 2-3.
Repeatable.
Prereq: 6 credits in Religious Studies and permission of instructor
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
RELIG 540. Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion.
(Dual-listed with RELIG 340). (Cross-listed with ANTHR). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 6 credits in anthropology, ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Survey of global religious belief and practice from an anthropological perspective. Emphasis on myth and ritual, shamanism, magic, witchcraft, beliefs in spirits, conceptions of the soul, mind and body relationships, and healing and therapeutic practices. Discussion of religious response to dramatic political and social change; effects of globalization on religious practice.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
RELIG 590. Special Topics in Religious Studies.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor, 9 credits in religious studies
