In popular media, religion and violence are often portrayed as deeply implicated in one another, with religion depicted as a cause of violence. There is no question that religious texts not only depict violent acts but also may be read to condone them. At the same time, there is a growing body of scholarly literature that contests a simple cause-and-effect relation between the two. Drawing upon a wide variety of literature, film, historical, and scholarly reflection, this course introduces students to the claims and counterclaims in current circulation about the relation between religion and violence. In addition, it recognizes and interrogates the historical role that religion has played in promoting practices of non-violence. Studying religion’s relationship to acts of violence and practices of non-violence equips students to think critically about issues that have become emblematic of our time. Meets the Equity and Power: EPG requirement. (Not offered 2024-25).

Degree requirement — Equity and Power: EPG

1 unit

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