This course explores the changing significance of religion in the present day world. Classical modernization theory predicted the gradual decline of religiosity. However, in recent decades, religion has once again gained prominence as a prime societal force. What is the relationship between religion, secularism and modernity? When do we define beliefs as religious? What needs are religious communities catering to? What can we learn from religious rituals? How are new religious beliefs emerging?
The course has been divided in three sections:
Religion, modernity, secularism (week 1-3)
Everyday religion (week 4-9)
Beyond religion (week 10-12).
The course intends to familiarize students with the major anthropological and sociological debates on religion, secularism and global modernity; to get acquainted with methodological approaches to the study of religion; and to equip students to pursue further studies in the field of religious practices.
Coordinator
Dr. Erik de Maaker: maaker@fsw.leidenuniv.nl ; room nr. 3A33 (Pieter de la Court Building)
Methods of instruction
lectures 12 hours (18 sbu)
tutorial 12 hours (24 sbu)
literature 996 pages (166 sbu)
written assignments 9 pages (72 sbu)
Study material
Susan Harding (2000), The book of Jerry Falwell: Fundamentalist Language and Politics. Princeton, NJ: Princeton Press.
Articles to be specified at the beginning of the course.
Examination
AQCI assignments: Out of a total of 10 assignments, one assignment can be omitted. The assignment to be omitted has either not been submitted, or it is the assignment for which the lowest mark has been obtained. Assignments are due the latest one day (24 hrs) preceding the class in which they are discussed. Assignments which have been submitted, but failed, can be retried. Assignments that have not been submitted at the time/date that they are due cannot be resubmitted. All re-submissions are due the latest at the day time of the final lecture.
Time table
Time: Tuesdays, 3 February - 21 April 2009, 11-13 h
Location: Room 1A11, Pieter de la Court Building
Application
Dutch students:
Inschrijving op het secretariaat CA-OS, kamer 3A19, tel. 5273469, vóór 15 januari 2009.
International students:
For application please follow regular procedure through International Office, or contact the departmental coordinator N. Osterhaus-Simic.