HIST 0425
Mod Religion/Identity/Conflict
Modern Religion, Identity, and Conflict
Europe experienced a marked decrease in the formal observance of religion during the nineteenth century, and hence, this period is viewed as the point at which the significance of religion declined. Yet, the indirect importance of religion has continued to be substantial. In this course we will explore the lasting influence of religion on the formation of identity and the creation of conflict during the modern era. It will also address methodological questions concerning the study of religion, such as how should religion be defined and how can researchers measure religiosity beyond formal expressions. We will also consider European and American examples from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, concluding with the current significance of religion for terrorism. In light of its formative effect on scholarly interpretations of religion, however, the long nineteenth century in Europe will be the most heavily examined. 3 hr. sem.
Europe experienced a marked decrease in the formal observance of religion during the nineteenth century, and hence, this period is viewed as the point at which the significance of religion declined. Yet, the indirect importance of religion has continued to be substantial. In this course we will explore the lasting influence of religion on the formation of identity and the creation of conflict during the modern era. It will also address methodological questions concerning the study of religion, such as how should religion be defined and how can researchers measure religiosity beyond formal expressions. We will also consider European and American examples from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, concluding with the current significance of religion for terrorism. In light of its formative effect on scholarly interpretations of religion, however, the long nineteenth century in Europe will be the most heavily examined. 3 hr. sem.