[REL 101] Introduction to the Study of Religion

Introduction

There is a significant difference between the devotional study of religion and the academic study of religion. The academic study of religion is an intellectual endeavor that seeks to understand the significance of religious life and thought to individuals, cultures, and societies. A key element in this endeavor is objectivity--separating one's own religion, or lack of religion, from the investigation of religion. But at the same time, we will be dealing with very important questions about the nature and purpose of life, and I hope that the course will have a positive bearing on your worldview, values, and answers to life's ultimate questions.

This course introduces students to various methods employed in the academic study of religion and will provide opportunity for students to apply these methods to diverse expressions of the religious life.

This course serves as a foundation for other courses offered by various academic departments in the UW Colleges and cross-listed in the Religious Studies Program within the Department of Philosophy. While not a prerequisite for these courses, students are encouraged to take Introduction to the Study of Religion as a gateway course, especially if they have interest in majoring in Religious Studies upon transfer.

The following University of Wisconsin institutions offer majors in Religious Studies:

• UW-Eau Claire
• UW-LaCrosse
• UW-Oshkosh
• UW-Milwaukee
• UW-Madison
• UW- Stevens Point

Description

UW Colleges Catalog Course Description for REL 101: Introduction to the Study of Religion - 3 credits. This course introduces students to various methods employed in the academic study of religion and will provide opportunity for students to apply these methods to diverse expressions of the religious life. This course fulfills the UWC requirement for Humanities (HU).

Proficiencies

Institutional proficiencies assigned to this course

Successful completion of this course will enhance students' ability to

• interpret and synthesize information and ideas;
• analyze and evaluate arguments;
• construct an argument in support of a conclusion;
• construct and support hypotheses;
• select and apply scientific and other appropriate methodologies;
• integrate knowledge and experience to arrive at creative solutions;
• gather and assess information from printed sources, electronic sources, and observation;
• read, observe, and listen with comprehension and critical perception;
• communicate clearly, precisely, and in a well-organized manner;
• demonstrate a large and varied vocabulary;
• recognize and use a variety of communication forms and styles;
• use computer technologies for communication.

Requirements

Software

• Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

  The most current edition of MS Office (containing MS Word, PowerPoint and other valuable programs) is available to University of Wisconsin students at discounted prices through the Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog.

• Adobe Acrobat Reader.

  This is free and freely distributed software that lets you view and print Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed, please download it by visiting http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html

About the Instructors

• James Veninga
  Professor, Philosophy
  BA, Baylor University
  MTS, Harvard University
  MA, PhD, Rice University