Meredith College : Religion & Philosophy : Courses

Religion & Philosophy Courses

The department offers the following courses in religion and philosophy.

Religion

REL-101 Religions in the United States (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course is an exploration of the changing religious landscape of the United States, looking at the history and dynamic interaction of the various religious traditions that compose the contemporary American religious scene. We will explore global religious traditions as expressed in the American context, as well as some culturally specific traditions. Throughout we will maintain a dual focus on how the various religious traditions are changing in the American environment and how America is changing in this new multi-religious context.

REL-102 World Religions (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

An exploration of major eastern and western religious traditions including, but not limited to, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. In addition to looking at the historical development of such traditions, this course addresses issues concerning current religious practice and the role of major religious traditions in contemporary society.

REL-103 Biblical Literature and History (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

A study of the canonical literature of the Jewish and Christian traditions. This course will explore how this diverse body of literature relates to its social and historical contexts. The focus will be on acquiring tools from a variety of academic approaches to reading the Bible. This course will enable students to understand how interpretive choices have been made in the reading of biblical texts and to reflect on how diverse ways of interpreting the Bible have shaped culture and continue to do so.

REL-104 Religious Ethics and Social Issues (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This is an introductory course in ethical reflection which explores contemporary social issues from a variety of religious and philosophical traditions. Issues covered pertain to personal concerns such as sexuality, marriage, and reproduction, as well as broader societal issues regarding our economic lives and the environment.

REL-105 Philosophy of Religion (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course examines how reason and faith seek in different ways to provide answers to the major questions which people have always asked about the nature and meaning of life. The questions dealt with include the following: What are the various avenues to knowledge, or truth? What are the differing functions of literal and symbolic language? What are the arguments for the existence of God? Can the pluralism of religions be reconciled in unity? Is there a solution to the problem of evil? Is there hope of immortality? Also offered as PHI-105.

REL-200 Introductory Topics in Religious Studies (3 hrs.)
(Course Offered As Needed)

An introductory study of selected topics within the area of religious studies as determined by faculty expertise and student interest. Topics may take a thematic, historical or comparative approach within the following areas: religion and culture, religion and society, religious ethics, religious thought and sacred texts. The course may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-201 Introduction to Religious Studies (3 hrs.)
(Spring, Alternate Years)

This is a seminar devoted to the theories and methods in the academic study of religion from its beginnings in the 19th century until the present. Key theories and theorists will be discussed with a goal of developing basic knowledge of the issues in the field. This course will not be a prerequisite to other courses. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-220 Ethics of Love and Justice (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course is an introduction to the historical development of ethical thought in the western philosophical and religious traditions. It is organized around the central themes of love and justice as addressed by major thinkers from the ancient past to the present. Students will explore various interpretations of the nature and demands of justice in conversation with the different roles that love and the emotions are seen to play in shaping ethical commitments and practices. Also offered as PHI 220.

REL-250 Religion and Film
(Course offered fall or spring, every year)

This course looks at the importance of religious thought in world cinema. It will consider a wide variety of films - from independent to mainstream Hollywood blockbusters - and will provide students with background knowledge of the religious tradition relevant to each film. After introductory readings on film theory, students will critically assess the form and content of films selected from different world cultures. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-251 Introduction to Buddhism (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

This course presents the religious philosophy, practices and cultural developments of Buddhism from 6th century BCE India to present-day America. In the course of this study, we will examine Buddhist ideas about the nature of existence, the basis of knowledge, the nature and path to salvation, psychology, ethics, aesthetics, gender and mind-body issues. Prerequisite: One 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-252 Religion and Art in Asia (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

This course explores religious thought and expression in the pan-Asian sphere. It travels to India, China, Japan and beyond to investigate how the visual and performing arts can be seen as both expressions of and constructions for the sacred. Religious art and architecture, material culture, garden design, fashion design, interior design, martial arts, dance, music, ritual performance, tea ceremony and popular culture will be considered in the context of Asian religious thought and philosophy. Also offered as Art 220. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-262 Jesus and the Gospels (3 hrs.)
(Spring Semester, Every Year)

This course examines the varied and multiple ways that Jesus is portrayed in the New Testament gospels and other Christian gospels. The modern quest for the historical Jesus is a focal point of this course, and students will examine a variety of historical, literary and theological problems posed by the gospel texts and the quest. This course meets the general education literature requirement. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-265 Prophetic Elements in Biblical Traditions (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

A study of the prophetic books of the Old Testament, with attention to their contemporary value. This course meets the general education literature requirement. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-267 Christian Origins: From Cult to Empire (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Alternate Years)

A study of the development and diversity of early Christian life and thought as reflected in literature spanning from the New Testament letters of Paul to the writings of St. Augustine in the fifth century. Topics will include the spread of Christianity and the formation of the early church; persecution and martyrdom; heresy and orthodoxy; women’s roles; social issues; asceticism and sainthood. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-268 Women and the Bible (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Alternate Years)

A study of the status of women in the Old and New Testament cultures, the understandings of women in biblical theology, and the role of women in the events of biblical history. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-282 Introduction to Christianity (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

An examination of major figures and movements in the development of Christianity, concentrating on the medieval, Reformation, and modern periods. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-283 Mothers, Mystics and Martyrs: Women in the Christian Tradition (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

A survey of the role of women in the history of Christianity, from the time of the early church to the modern period. Attention will be given to outstanding individuals and significant movements as well as to the social and theological settings out of which they emerged. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-284 Sin, Satan, and Evil (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

A study of beliefs, images, and stories about sin and evil in the religious traditions of Judaism and Christianity, focusing on the figure of Satan and patterns of belief and disbelief in Western religious history. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-285 Theology & Contemporary Lit (3 hrs.)
(Fall Semester, Alternate Years)

A study of religious themes in contemporary novels and drama, together with an introduction to film as a contemporary art form. Typical authors examined: Beckett, Camus, Kafka, Salinger, DeVries, Steinbeck, Tennessee Williams, and Updike. This course meets the general education literature requirement. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-286 Latin American Liberation Theology (3 hrs.)
(Spring semester, Alternate Years)

Liberation Theology is a religious movement which uses the biblical teachings of Jesus and the Hebrew prophets with the social sciences to argue and work for social justice. In this course, we will examine its origins in 1960s Latin America, its development in subsequent decades, and the challenges it faces due to current shifting economic, political, and religious trends. This course is taughtas a Core 200 linkage with HIS 200, Latin American History. Films about Latin America are the centerpiece of this linkage. Prerequisites: One 100- level Religion Course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-299 Introduction to Research in Religious Studies (1–3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will participate in a research project that will culminate in a paper and, if appropriate, a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course.

REL-342 Psychology of Religion (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

A study of different psychological approaches that take religious beliefs, practices, moralities and experiences as their object of study. The course draws upon theories from depth psychology and humanistic schools of thought and the findings of empirical forms of psychological theory and research. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-344 Biomedical Ethics (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course explores the ethical implications of technological and economic developments in the areas of health care and medical research relevant to both the general public and health care professionals and researchers. Specific issues covered include professional ethics, reproductive technologies, genetic testing and engineering, organ transplants, biomedical research and health care allocation and access. Prerequisites: one 100-level Religion course. Also offered as PHI-344. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-345 Environmental Ethics (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Alternate Years)

This course explores ethical issues that arise in connection to the environment including: biodiversity; wilderness preservation; pollution; population; private property and common resources; intergenerational justice; environmental public policy; and corporate responsibility. Students will be introduced to the historical traditions of thought with respect to the environment, new and emerging forms of environmental ethics and the practical application of ethical theories and principles to current environmental concerns. Particular attention will be give to the ethical challenges of weighing competing interests and claims of individuals, social groups and institutions, future generations and the broader biotic community. Also offered as PHI-345. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-346 Anthropology of Religion (3 hrs.)
(Fall Semester, Every Year)

This course focuses on the ways in which religion and human culture intersect. We will look at such themes as myth, symbol, magic and ritual and see how they contribute to the formation of human societies. Students will engage in a local field research project to learn how anthropologists study religion. Students enroll in CORE 407 to take this course. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-351 Comparative Mysticism (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

This course explores the remarkable phenomenon of mysticism: the direct experience of the sacred, however it may be defined. It will present major theoretical approaches to the study of mysticism before discussing the textual accounts and visual expressions of mystics throughout the world and throughout history. Primary emphasis will be given to Hindu-Buddhist and Christian sources, though other varieties of mystical experience will also be considered. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-383 Religion in U.S. History (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Department Head)

A study of the religions of the United States from the pre-colonial period to the present. Special attention to the impact of religious beliefs and practices in the shaping of U.S. culture and society. Focus will be placed on major periods, movements, and events and their connections to religious experience: the founding of the republic and civil religion, denominationalism and revivalism, frontier and utopian quests, Protestant/Catholic/Jewish interaction, slavery and civil rights, science and fundamentalism, secularism and pluralism. Also offered as HIS-383. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-385 Europe in the Middle Ages (3 hrs.)
(Spring, Even-Numbered Years Only)

This course will survey major developments in western Europe from roughly 400 CE to 1300 CE. It will use primary and secondary sources to explore the growth of a distinctly European civilization upon its Judaeo-Christian, classical and Germanic roots, and will trace the expression of this civilization through its political, religious and educational institutions; its formal religious thought and vernacular literature; its art, architecture and music; and its interactions with different cultures both within and beyond its borders. Specific topics covered will include the Germanic invasions, monasticism, the conversion of Europe, the growth of the manorial and feudal systems, scholastic thought in the universities, heresy and the crusades, the growth of representative government and others. Also offered as HIS-385.

REL-387 Age of Renaissance/Reformation (3 hrs.)
(Spring, Odd-Numbered Years Only)

This course will work primarily through class discussion of primary sources to understand the changes in outlook expressed in the Renaissance, the Reformation and the Scientific Revolution between the fourteenth and seventeenth centuries. In particular, it will focus upon the transition from medieval toward modern attitudes in areas such as historical and scientific thought, political and educational theory, philosophy, art, music and religious thought and practice. It will also address the economic, social and political variables that underlay these changes in intellectual life, as well as the impact that these ideas had upon European society. Students will be encouraged to explore individual interests from their own major fields and personal backgrounds. Also offered as HIS-387.

REL-389 God and the Search for Meaning
(Fall or Spring Semesters, Alternate Years)

This course explores the development of major Christian concepts, such as, the existence and nature of God, the person of Jesus, the meaning of being human, and the role of the church. This course will examine each concept from the point of view of several historically influential theologians - Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin - as well as significant contemporarytheologians. Prerequisite: One 100 level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-400 Selected Topics in Religious Studies (3 hrs.)
(Course Offered As Needed)

A study of selected topics within the area of religious studies as determined by faculty expertise and student interest. Topics may take a thematic, historical or comparative approach within the following areas: religion and culture, religion and society, religious ethics, religious thought and sacred texts. The course may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or bypermission of the instructor.

CORE 409 Violence, War and Peace (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course looks at the perennial issues of violence, war, and peace from personal, local, national, and international points of view. We will examine these problems from various perspectives, including those of social sciences, cultural studies, and the humanities. Using a variety of texts, films, fiction, and current affairs readings, we will examine root casues of wars in the past and will examine the possibilities of non-violence and constructive peace-making in the world of today. The course counts towards fulfillment of the requirements in the Religion major and Philosophy and Religion minors. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-497 Seminar (3 hrs.)
(Fall, Course Offered Every Year)

Open to seniors who have had a minimum of 12 hours in religion. Topic varies from semester to semester. Required of majors. Prerequisites: 12 credits in Religion, or by permission of the instructor.

REL-498 Honors Thesis in Religion (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will formulate and conduct a research project that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration. The project must meet Honors Program Thesis requirements and conform to the thesis guidelines of the department of Religion and Philosophy. Open to Honors Students and Teaching Fellows during their junior or senior year. Prerequisite: 12 credits in Religion, or bypermission of the instructor.

REL-499 Research in Religion (1–3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will participate in a research project that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration. Open to Junior and Senior Religion Majors and Minors.

Philosophy

PHI-105 Philosophy of Religion (3 hrs.)
(Fall and Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

PHI-201 Introduction to Philosophy (3 hrs.)
(Fall, Course Offered Every Year)

An examination of issues common to human experience, such as the problem of knowledge, theories of values, and the interpretation of science, history, and religion.

PHI-205 Political Ideas Seminar (3 hrs.)
(Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

Selected readings from original sources in the area of modern and contemporary political philosophy. Topics covered include democracy, liberalism, Marxism, and liberation ideologies. Emphasis is on developing writing and analytic skills. (Required for politics majors, who should take it in their sophomore or junior year.) Also offered as POL-205. Prerequisites: ENG-111.

PHI-210 Critical Thinking (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

The purpose of the course is to learn to recognize and evaluate informal arguments found in ordinary language and everyday-life situations. Students will work toward the skill of quick recognition of patterns of thought and direct evaluation of the their validity. Belief in the power of rational analysis will be encouraged, so that main points (premises, evidences, and inferences) can be distinguished from minor, irrelevant, or misleading points in various media of communication.

PHI-220 Ethics of Love and Justice (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

PHI-251 Ancient Greek Philosophy (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

An intellectual-historical survey of the Greek mind with its major contributions to Western thought. An effort to uncover major milestones in Greek thinking by understanding some of the historical and cultural movements which issued into the great philosophical systems.

PHI-252 Modern Philosophy (3 hrs.)
(Varies, Contact Dept. Head)

A survey of philosophy in the 19th and 20th centuries, with particular attention to the movements of existentialism and linguistic analysis.

PHI-344 Biomedical Ethics (3 hrs.)
(Fall Or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

PHI-345 Environmental Ethics (3 hrs.)
(Fall Or Spring, Course Offered Alternate Years)

This course explores ethical issues that arise in connection to the environment including: biodiversity; wilderness preservation; pollution; population; private property and common resources; intergenerational justice; environmental public policy; and corporate responsibility. Students will be introduced to the historical traditions of thought with respect to the environment, new and emerging forms of environmental ethics and the practical application of ethical theories and principles to current environmental concerns. Particular attention will be give to the ethical challenges of weighing competing interests and claims of individuals, social groups and institutions, future generations and the broader biotic community. Also offered as REL-345. Prerequisite: One 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

CORE 408 Violence, War and Peace (3 hrs.)
(Fall or Spring, Course Offered Every Year)

This course looks at the perennial issues of violence, war, and peace from personal, local, national, and international points of view. We will examine these problems from various perspectives, including those of social sciences, cultural studies, and the humanities. Using a variety of texts, films, fiction, and current affairs readings, we will examine root causes of wars in the past and will examine the possibilities of non-violence and constructive peace-making in the world of today. The course counts towards fulfillment of the requirements in the Religion major and Philosophy and Religion minors. Prerequisite: one 100-level Religion course, or by permission of the instructor.

Religion & Philosophy Courses

Religion

Philosophy

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