This course will examine topics related to the sociology of religion. In particular, we will focus on religion as a social phenomenon and how it affects individual and community experience, how it is structured, and how it affects broader society. The primary goal of the course is to locate the sociology of religion within the broader domain of sociology as a whole. The course does not aim to be exhaustive of all topics related to the sociology of religion, nor does it aim to touch on all theoretical perspectives that help us understand religion in society. Instead, it is intended to (1) demonstrate that religion is an important social phenomenon, (2) raise interesting questions about religion as a social phenomenon, and (3) show you that your previous training in sociology and anthropology gives you the tools to understand religion in its social context.

This syllabus was created for the Young Scholars in American Religion program.

Susanne Monahan
Author

Montana State University
Institution

Public College or University
Institution Type

Syllabus
Resource Type

Undergraduate Course, Seminar
Class Type

1999
Date Published

Religious Studies, Sociology
Discipline

General Comparative Traditions
Religous Tradition

Business/Capitalism/Labor, Politics/Law/Government, Pluralism/Secularism/Culture Wars
Topics