Unit name | Approaches to the Study of Religion |
---|---|
Unit code | THRS10030 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | C/4 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. David Leech |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
none |
Co-requisites |
none |
School/department | Department of Religion and Theology |
Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
In this unit, students will encounter a variety of disciplines, key theories and core approaches to the study of religion, examining in particular theological, sociological, anthropological, psychological, philosophical and comparative approaches. These disciplinary approaches will be illuminated by relevant examples drawn from the disciplines of the specialists lecturers who are teaching the unit. John R. Hinnels, The Routledge Companion to the Study of Religion (2009; also available as an ebook), will provide the core reading material for the unit. The aim of this unit is to equip students of religion and theology with a sound theoretical understanding of the key disciplines and approaches which shape their study of this discipline.
Students will practise their close reading skills in small groups, and will work together on a group presentation.
On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:
Classes will involve a combination of long- and short-form lectures, class discussion, investigative activities, and practical activities. Students will be expected to engage with readings and participate on a weekly basis. This will be further supported with drop-in sessions and self-directed exercises with tutor and peer feedback.
1 x 1000 word portfolio (formative) [ILOs 1-4] 1 x 2000 word essay (100%) [ILOs 1-4]
• John R. Hinnels, The Routledge Companion to the Study of Religion (Second Edition; London: Routledge, 2009)
• Seth Kunin & Jonathan Miles-Watson, Theories of Religion: A Reader (Edinburgh: EUP, 2006)
• Russell T. McCutcheon, Studying Religion: An Introduction (London: Equinox, 2007)
• Susan Mumm, Religion Today: A Reader (London: Ashgate, 2002).