The Religion AOC encourages critical thinking about religious traditions, ideals, rituals, and practices. Students of Religion develop empathetic insight into the fundamental ideas and values of other peoples, times, and places, which is key to effective communication and collaboration.
About the Religion Area of Concentration
Former Secretary of State, John Kerry, writes that “One of the most interesting challenges we face in global diplomacy today is the need to fully understand and engage the great impact that a wide range of religious traditions have on foreign affairs. […] if I headed back to college today, I would major in comparative religions rather than political science.”
In light of the pivotal role religion has played in shaping selves, societies, and cultures from ancient times to the present, the Religion program provides the beginning student with an understanding of the complexity of religious phenomena and offers the advanced student a variety of methods appropriate to such study.
The mission of the religion program is to encourage critical thinking about religious traditions, ideals, rituals, and practices; to develop empathetic insight into the fundamental ideas and values of other peoples, times, and places, and to foster critical self-consciousness about the values and commitments of one’s own age and society. Through these studies, students reflect upon the historically developed content of their own culture as well as that of others.
Featured Course
RELI 3450
Judaism and Ecology
Over time Judaism has developed certain notions about protecting the environment and respecting natural resources. This course will trace these ideas from the Bible until today, focusing on the creation of both legal and conceptual traditions. Students will explore a variety of early rabbinic, medieval and modern texts. In addition, readings and discussion will consider the special challenges and rewards of constructing a dialogue between ancient traditions and modern concerns.
Recent courses
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Career Pathways
- Law
- Education
- Religious Professional
Contact Us
Humanities Division
Phone Number
Email Address
Location
Ace Academic Center 116
Religion Faculty
Dr. David Edwards
Visiting Assistant Professor of Religion
Dr. Douglas Estes
Associate Professor of Religion
Dr. Manuel Lopez
Associate Provost
Associate Professor of Religion and Buddhist Studies
Dr. Nassima Neggaz
Associate Professor of History and Religion
Dr. Gordon Michalson Jr.
Professor Emeritus of Humanities
Dr. John Newman
Emeritus Professor of Religion