ISSS 304S - American Religious Behavior

Perhaps no subject is subject to more debate and discussion than the nature of religion in American life. This class will be an interdisciplinary exploration of current themes in the sociology of American religion: the ongoing interplay between secularization and religious vitality, the connection between religion and politics, new religious movements, and research strategies for studying religious behavior. Beginning with a look at classical theories of religious life and organization (Weber, Durkheim, and others), the course will incorporate readings that illustrate interesting aspects of American religious behavior, drawn from scholarly work in theology, sociology, and history. (IR)

Credits: 3