NEXUS
Studying religion 101
How scholars study religions and beliefs from the outside, with respect and without endorsing any.
Studying religion 101
How scholars study religions and beliefs from the outside, with respect and without endorsing any.
Level
Foundations
Who it is for
Everyone from about age 14: young people, adults, parents and newcomers. No prior knowledge is needed.
Format
Self-paced online, in plain language, with maps, figures, short quizzes and a discussion.
About 6 hours. Hours are an estimate.
What you will be able to do
- Explain the academic study of religion and how it differs from theology.
- Use neutral terms for beliefs, practices and communities.
- Describe freedom of religion or belief in international law.
Modules
- What is religious studies?. Methods and the outsider's view.
- Words and categories. Belief, practice, community and the names communities use.
- Freedom of religion or belief. Article 18 and the UN standards.
- Studying with communities. Consent, respect and plural voices.
Assessment
A short check after each module, with feedback. Completion is recorded; it is not an accredited award.
Status
Draft outline for scholarly review. The lessons, readings and questions are in preparation. Completion is recorded; nothing is accredited.
This course is shared by IDCDC and KCO. Course codes: IDCDC-FTH-08 (IDCDC) and KCO-FTH-06 (KCO).