Module description
Is there a role for religion in the public sphere? Is there a role for the state in religious affairs? Is secularism – the separation between the state and religious institutions – necessary for the coexistence of diverse traditions in multi-religious societies? Is secularism a Christian concept? How do is religion, secularism and the role of the state discussed in various religious and political contexts around the world? And how do these debates affect our understanding of 'religion' and our work in Religious Studies?
This module offers an introduction to new research on these questions. We will examine diverse perspectives on religion and the state, religion and nation, religion and culture, and on the role of gender in defining public and private spheres. Students will be able to develop competent and creative approaches to current debates, taking into consideration the diversity and complexity of a range of responses to the challenges and promises of modern multi-religious societies.
Assessment details
One 4,000 word essay (100%)
Educational aims & objectives
This module will allow students:
- To develop a solid understanding of the historical constellations in which key issues regarding the role of religion in the public sphere emerged (Enlightenment, French Revolution, the emergence of the secular nation state, colonialism).
- To analyse and contextualise in a nuanced and complex manner a broad range of perspectives on religion and the state, religion and nation, religion and culture.
- To analyse the role of gender in defining private and public space.
- To evaluate how current research has brought diverse perspectives on religion, secularism, citizenship and public space into conversation with each other.
Learning outcomes
Students will deepen their understanding of key issues regarding religious and cultural diversity in the public sphere. They will learn to
- evaluate key texts and issues that shaped, and continue to shape, modern approaches to religion and the state;
- analyse various different perspectives to religion and citizenship, religion and nation, religion and culture;
- relate critically and constructively to current research on religion and secularism in inter-disciplinary contexts;
- develop competent and creative approaches to current debates on religion and secularism, taking into consideration the complexity and diversity of responses to the promises and challenges of multi-religious societies.
Teaching pattern
One two-hour class weekly over ten weeks
Suggested reading list
- Jakobsen, Janet R., and Ann Pellegrini (eds), Secularisms (Durham: Duke University Press, 2008).
- Mahmood, Saba, Religious Difference in a Secular Age (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2016)