DEI 569 - Understanding Religious Diversity

Course unit(s): 0.5
This course aims to meet the goal of advancing equity through religious literacy by 1) introducing students to some of the rich diversity of religious thought and practice across and within religious traditions; and 2) exposing students to contemporary issues involving religion such as religious discrimination, cultural appropriation, freedom from/of religion, religion in public education, among others. Through case studies, students will consider the effects of being perceived as religiously “different,” and reflect creatively on how to counter and avoid religious biases and othering. Upon successful completion of the course, students will:
● Develop a basic understanding of the history, central texts (where applicable), beliefs, practices, and contemporary manifestations of several of the world’s religious traditions in particular social, historical, and cultural contexts.
● Reflect on how learning about unfamiliar religious traditions challenges and/or supports their understanding of religion, and reflect on the current-day implications of religious illiteracy.
● Consider and assess different responses to religious diversity, and reflect on how knowledge about religious diversity can be used to develop more equitable policy, law, and community relations