Religious Studies (REL)
REL 160, *QUESTS FOR MEANING: WORLD RELIGIONS, 4 Credits
A survey and analysis of the search for meaning and life fulfillment represented in major religious traditions of the world, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. CROSSLISTED as PHL 160/REL 160.
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: PHL 160, PHL 160H, REL 160H
Available via Ecampus
REL 160H, *QUESTS FOR MEANING: WORLD RELIGIONS, 4 Credits
A survey and analysis of the search for meaning and life fulfillment represented in major religious traditions of the world, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, Confucianism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. CROSSLISTED as PHL 160/REL 160.
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
REL 170, *THE IDEA OF GOD, 4 Credits
Concepts and images of God and their connections to world-views, experience, science, gender, society, self-understanding, and religions. CROSSLISTED as PHL 170/REL 170. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture
Equivalent to: PHL 170
REL 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
REL 201, STUDY OF PEACE AND THE CAUSES OF CONFLICT, 3 Credits
Examination of the causes of personal, social, and institutional conflict and peaceful, constructive means of dealing with conflict. The history and current status of peace movements within and outside governments; prospects for world peace. Case studies in peace and conflict. CROSSLISTED as PAX 201/REL 201. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: PAX 201
REL 202, INTRODUCTION TO RELIGIOUS STUDIES, 4 Credits
An introduction to the academic study of religion. It examines the concepts of religion and the sacred, approaches to the study of religion, ubiquitous features of religious experience, including symbol, myth, ritual, and community, understandings of the human condition in diverse religious traditions, and ways religious communities address challenges of pluralism and secularization. CROSSLISTED as PHL 202/REL 202.
Equivalent to: PHL 202
Available via Ecampus
REL 206, *RELIGIOUS ETHICS AND MORAL PROBLEMS, 4 Credits
An examination of the practical ethics of the monotheistic religious traditions of the West--Judaism, Christianity, Islam--and their different approaches to concrete moral problems. Topics include sexuality and marriage, euthanasia, capital punishment, pacifism and just war, and environmentalism. CROSSLISTED as PHL 206/REL 206. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture
Equivalent to: PHL 206
REL 208, INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHIST TRADITIONS, 4 Credits
Survey of the historical development of Buddhism in India and its spread throughout Asia and beyond by investigating the literature, rituals, history and social structure of the Buddhist traditions of Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, Tibet and the Himalayan region, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and finally its growth in the West. CROSSLISTED as PHL 208/REL 208. (NC)
Attributes: LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 208
Available via Ecampus
REL 210, *RELIGION IN THE UNITED STATES, 4 Credits
A thematic overview of the historical study of religion in the United States, with an eye toward ways that social and cultural contexts have shaped the religious experience of Americans in different places and times. Surveys a wide array of religious movements, groups, and individuals from the colonial period to present. CROSSLISTED as HST 210/PHL 210/REL 210. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: HST 210, HST 210H, PHL 210, PHL 210H, REL 210H
Available via Ecampus
REL 210H, *RELIGION IN THE UNITED STATES, 4 Credits
A thematic overview of the historical study of religion in the United States, with an eye toward ways that social and cultural contexts have shaped the religious experience of Americans in different places and times. Surveys a wide array of religious movements, groups, and individuals from the colonial period to present. CROSSLISTED as HST 210/PHL 210/REL 210. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: HST 210, HST 210H, PHL 210, PHL 210H, REL 210
REL 213, *INTRODUCTION TO HINDU TRADITIONS, 4 Credits
Survey of the historical development of Hinduism in India and the "Hindu Diaspora." Topics will include the Indus Valley civilization, the Vedic tradition, yoga, and Hindu renunciation, "Classical" Hindu theism and devotion, Hindu philosophy and ritual, and modern and contemporary Hinduism. CROSSLISTED as PHL 213/REL 213. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PHL 213
Available via Ecampus
REL 214, *INTRODUCTION TO ISLAMIC TRADITIONS, 4 Credits
Development of Islamic traditions in the Arab world and in the global context. Origins of Islam, the narrative of the Prophet Muhammad, the development of the Qur'an, and the central tenets of Islamic faith and practice. Transformation of Islam from a regional to a global tradition. CROSSLISTED as PHL 214/REL 214. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PHL 214
Available via Ecampus
REL 215, *INTRODUCTION TO JEWISH TRADITIONS, 4 Credits
An introduction to Judaism's traditions, histories, and practices. Covers historical origins and developments from the biblical period through the Middle Ages, and considers Judaism in the modern world. Topics include the Jewish calendar (including holidays and their traditions), Jewish life cycle events, Jewish prayer, and traditional texts such as the Mishnah and Talmud. CROSSLISTED as HST 215/REL 215. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: HST 215
REL 216, +NEWER RELIGIONS OF THE WORLD, 4 Credits
Offers students an opportunity to think about what constitutes “religion.” Invites students to understand and debate terminology such as “cult,” “syncretism,” and “spiritual but not religious.” Emphasizes the reality that religion has sometimes sought to reclaim an older social order and other times sought to radically reinvent the social order and create new utopias. Analyzes historical development of religious groups by using race and gender as categories of analysis. Examines at the impact of the internet and social media on religion.
Attributes: CFAH – Core Ed - Art & Humanities General
REL 220, *WORLD-VIEWS AND VALUES IN THE BIBLE, 4 Credits
A study of central portions of the Bible (in the Old Testament: Torah, prophets, psalms, and wisdom; in the New Testament: Jesus, gospels, and letters) from the perspective of the academic discipline of biblical scholarship, exploring the philosophical questions of the relationships between story, myth, thought, values, and understandings of life. CROSSLISTED as PHL 220/REL 220. (H) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: PHL 220
REL 250, LEGAL PERSPECTIVES, 2 Credits
Introduces the study of law and law’s relationship to culture, society, and a variety of adjacent disciplines, including history, philosophy, and religious studies. Familiarizes students with key theories, historical movements, and structures and philosophies of law, emphasizing both US and global contexts. Develops skills in legal modes of analysis and close reading. CROSSLISTED as HST 250/PHL 250/REL 250.
REL 299, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
REL 308, *INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPLATIVE STUDIES, 4 Credits
Combines a “third-person” scholarly approach with “critical first-person” experience and reflection in the study of contemplative practices. Explores both religious and secular contemplative traditions, practices and worldviews in cultures-of-origin, and as adopted by other cultures and adapted over time. Reviews practices including yoga, movement, meditation, prayer, presence in nature, ritual, service, recitation, introspection, writing and creative expression. Analyzes practices in primary philosophical, religious, historical, cultural, and psychological contexts. Emphasizes textual study, expert dialogues, discussion and development of contemplative skills. Applies principles to social issues and integrates values and meaning-making with career development. CROSSLISTED as PHL 308/REL 308. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PHL 308
Available via Ecampus
REL 310, *CRITICS OF RELIGION, 4 Credits
An introduction to critiques of religion by Nietzsche, Freud, Marx, and other influential thinkers. Examines the nature, scope, and effects of criticisms that challenge the psychological, moral, political, and epistemological foundations of religious belief, practice, and institutions. CROSSLISTED as PHL 310/REL 310.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: PHL 310
Available via Ecampus
REL 315, *GANDHI AND NONVIOLENCE, 4 Credits
An examination of the life and work of Mohandas K. Gandhi, the 20th century activist and author, and the theory and practice of nonviolence in his life and work. Emphasis will be placed upon Gandhi's biographical narrative, the development of satyagraha, Gandhi's nonviolent approach to social transformation, and post-Gandhian nonviolent movements. CROSSLISTED as PHL 315/REL 315. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PHL 315
REL 316, INTELLECTUAL ISSUES OF MEXICO AND MEXICAN AMERICANS, 4 Credits
The philosophical, social, cultural, and political reality of Mexican Americans and their historical roots in Mexico since the Spanish Conquest. Analysis of internal colonialism, racism, machismo, fatalism, alienation, cultural identity, as well as more contemporary including NAFTA, immigration, and U.S.-Mexican relations. CROSSLISTED as PHL 316/REL 316. (NC)
Attributes: LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 316
REL 324, *ANCIENT JEWISH HISTORY, 4 Credits
History of Judaism from the Second Temple through the early Rabbinic period (539 BCE--200 CE). Covers historical origins and developments of Judaism including the canonization of the Bible, Jewish life in the Persian and Greco-Roman worlds, and the beginnings of Diasporic and Rabbinic Judaism. CROSSLISTED as HST 324/REL 324. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
REL 324H, *ANCIENT JEWISH HISTORY, 4 Credits
History of Judaism from the Second Temple through the early Rabbinic period (539 BCE--200 CE). Covers historical origins and developments of Judaism including the canonization of the Bible, Jewish life in the Persian and Greco-Roman worlds, and the beginnings of Diasporic and Rabbinic Judaism. CROSSLISTED as HST 324/REL 324. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
REL 325, *EARLY CHRISTIANITY: ORIGINS TO 600, 4 Credits
Traces early Christianity from its origins to the beginning of the Middle Ages. It deals with the origins and Jewish background of Christianity in Palestine, the ministry and teachings of Jesus, the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire by his disciples and early missionaries, the formation of the New Testament canon, the development of Christian doctrine, controversies over heresy, and the origin of monasticism and the Papacy. CROSSLISTED as HST 325/REL 325. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture
Equivalent to: HST 325
Available via Ecampus
REL 326, *HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY, 4 Credits
Examines the history of global Christianity from the fifth through the seventeenth centuries. Themes to be investigated include the evolving relationship between the church and the state; mysticism; conversion and resistance; the emergence of Protestantism; marriage and sex, as well as women in the history of Christianity. CROSSLISTED as HST 326/REL 326.
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture
Equivalent to: HST 326
Available via Ecampus
REL 327, HISTORY OF MEDIEVAL EUROPE, 4 Credits
Cultural, political, and economic history of the European Middle Ages from the fall of the Roman Empire in the West to the Renaissance. Covers 284 A.D. to 1000. Not offered every year. CROSSLISTED as HST 327/REL 327. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: HST 327
Available via Ecampus
REL 328, HISTORY OF MEDIEVAL EUROPE, 4 Credits
Cultural, political, and economic history of the European Middle Ages from the fall of the Roman Empire in the West to the Renaissance. Covers 1000 to 1400. Not offered every year. CROSSLISTED as HST 328/REL 328. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: HST 328
Available via Ecampus
REL 330, HISTORY OF EARLY MODERN EUROPE, 4 Credits
Political, social, intellectual, and cultural history of Europe from 1400-1789. Focuses on the Reformation. Not offered every year. CROSSLISTED as HST 330/REL 330. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: HST 330
Available via Ecampus
REL 344, *PACIFISM, JUST WAR, AND TERRORISM, 4 Credits
An examination of the philosophical and theological issues pertaining to pacifism, justified war, and forms of terrorism in Islamic and Western traditions. Special attention is given to concepts of jihad, justifications of war, and restraints on conduct in war. CROSSLISTED as PHL 344/REL 344.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: PHL 344
Available via Ecampus
REL 345, *FIRST FREEDOM: RELIGIOUS LIBERTY AND INTOLERANCE, 4 Credits
An examination of the religious, philosophical, political, and historical issues regarding religious freedom, conscience, and disestablishment as enshrined in the First Amendment and as illustrated by historical and contemporary examples of religious intolerance in the United States. CROSSLISTED as PHL 345/REL 345. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: PHL 345
REL 350, *EARLY LATIN AMERICA, 4 Credits
History of Latin America leading up to and after Spanish and Portuguese conquest. Focus on indigenous American, European and African cultures and religions in contact under colonial government and economic systems. Covers the period from 1400 to 1810. CROSSLISTED as HST 350/REL 350. (H) (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: HST 350, HST 350H
Available via Ecampus
REL 364, *UNITED STATES RELIGION AND SOCIAL REFORM, 4 Credits
Provides an awareness of how various religious groups have thought about and engaged with social change pertaining to slavery, feminism, civil rights, same-sex marriage, and immigration. Focus on reading primary sources related to each of these issues. CROSSLISTED as HST 364/REL 364. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: HST 364
Available via Ecampus
REL 371, *PHILOSOPHIES OF CHINA, 4 Credits
A study of the traditional philosophies of China, including Confucianism, Taoism, Mohism, Legalism, and Buddhism. Not offered every year. CROSSLISTED as PHL 371/REL 371. (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 371, PHL 371H
Recommended: 3 credits of philosophy or upper-division standing.
Available via Ecampus
REL 372, *AFRICAN AMERICAN RELIGION, 4 Credits
Introduces the history of African American religious experience in the United States from the colonial era to the present. Examines African influences on black American religions and flowering of new religious movements among African Americans during the Great Migration. Explores African-American religion in the civil rights and black consciousness movements, and explores in detail the growth of the Nation of Islam during this period. Discusses recent roles of Black religions in contemporary U.S. politics and African American life. CROSSLISTED as HST 372/REL 372. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: HST 372
Available via Ecampus
REL 378, *RELIGION AND GENDER: A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE, 4 Credits
Introduces students to the academic study of religion, as well as the academic study of gender. In order to offer a global perspective, we will read a series of case studies that deal with the religion as a gendered experience. Students will produce two essays, one of which will be based on independent research. CROSSLISTED as HST 378/REL 378/WGSS 378.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: HST 378, HST 378H, REL 378H, WGSS 378
Available via Ecampus
REL 378H, *RELIGION AND GENDER: A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE, 4 Credits
Introduces students to the academic study of religion, as well as the academic study of gender. In order to offer a global perspective, we will read a series of case studies that deal with the religion as a gendered experience. Students will produce two essays, one of which will be based on independent research. CROSSLISTED as HST 378/REL 378/WGSS 378.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
REL 387, *ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION, 4 Credits
Political, social, and religious developments from 600 to 1400. Early history and the formation of Islamic society to the Mongol invasion. CROSSLISTED as HST 387/REL 387. (H) (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: HST 387
REL 388, *ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION, 4 Credits
Political, social, and religious developments from 1400 to the present. The expansion of Islam, Turkic, and Asian dynasties, impact of Western imperialism and modern Islamic world. CROSSLISTED as HST 388/REL 388. (H) (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: HST 388
Available via Ecampus
REL 399, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
REL 402, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-12 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
REL 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
REL 407, ^SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
REL 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
REL 411, GREAT FIGURES IN PHILOSOPHY, 4 Credits
Study of the works of a major philosopher such as Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Kant, or Marx. Each course normally devoted to the work of a single figure. CROSSLISTED as PHL 411/REL 411.
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: PHL 411
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Recommended: 6 credits of philosophy and sophomore standing.
REL 415, SELECTED TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
REL 425, *THE HOLOCAUST IN ITS HISTORY, 4 Credits
An inquiry into the causes, course, and impact of the Holocaust. The general theme of anti-Semitism in European history is explored for background. Topics discussed for comparative purposes include anti-Semitism in American history; other episodes of mass murder in the 20th century. CROSSLISTED as HST 425/REL 425 and HST 525/REL 525.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
REL 425H, *THE HOLOCAUST IN ITS HISTORY, 4 Credits
An inquiry into the causes, course, and impact of the Holocaust. The general theme of anti-Semitism in European history is explored for background. Topics discussed for comparative purposes include anti-Semitism in American history; other episodes of mass murder in the 20th century. CROSSLISTED as HST 425/REL 425 and HST 525/REL 525.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
REL 430, HISTORY OF BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY, 4 Credits
Examination of the major philosophical schools, texts, and thinkers in Buddhist history, emphasizing its Indian origins, but looking beyond to the various Buddhist traditions throughout Asia. CROSSLISTED as PHL 430/REL 430 and PHL 530/REL 530.
Attributes: LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 430, PHL 430H
Available via Ecampus
REL 431, BUDDHISM, NON-VIOLENCE, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE, 4 Credits
Investigates the philosophical grounding of Buddhist ideas about non-violence, justice and social responsibility. Looks at broad-based Buddhist social activism movements and leaders; their methods of training, issues and types of actions taken by "Socially Engaged Buddhists" living Buddhist traditions. CROSSLISTED as PHL 431/REL 431 and PHL 531/REL 531.
Equivalent to: PHL 431, PHL 431H
Available via Ecampus
REL 432, *YOGA AND TANTRIC TRADITIONS, 4 Credits
An examination of the theory and practice of yoga and tantra in the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, and in their contemporary popular manifestations. Emphasis on the representation of yoga and tantra in Indian literature and history, including contemplative practices, bodily disciplines, and ritual. CROSSLISTED as PHL 432/REL 432 and PHL 532/REL 532.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: PHL 432
Available via Ecampus
REL 433, *THEORY AND PRACTICE OF MODERN YOGA, 4 Credits
An examination of the phenomenon of modern yoga in theory and in practice. Emphasis on the roots of contemporary forms of yoga in the intersection between traditional Hindu and Buddhist formulations of yoga, Indian wrestling and martial arts, European gymnastics, and cosmopolitan conceptions of "bodily culture" of both European and Indian origins. CROSSLISTED as PHL 433/REL 433.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: PHL 433
REL 434, *SPIRITUALITY AND ECOLOGY: GREEN YOGA, 4 Credits
An exploration of the relationship between spirituality and ecological engagement in traditional contexts and in contemporary spirituality, with a global focus on contemplative practices rooted in Indian tradition, such as yoga. CROSSLISTED as PHL 434/REL 434 and PHL 534/REL 534.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
REL 434H, *SPIRITUALITY AND ECOLOGY: GREEN YOGA, 4 Credits
An exploration of the relationship between spirituality and ecological engagement in traditional contexts and in contemporary spirituality, with a global focus on contemplative practices rooted in Indian tradition, such as yoga. CROSSLISTED as PHL 434/REL 434 and PHL 534/REL 534.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
REL 435, YOGA PHILOSOPHY, 2 Credits
Explores selected sutras from Patanjali’s classical yogic texts through a contemporary lens. Utilizes introductory Sanskrit pronunciation and definitions. Includes an experiential component with mediation, breath, reflection and postural techniques for greater synthesis of concepts.
Recommended: Some yoga or meditation experience
REL 436, PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION, 3 Credits
Examination of significant philosophical issues or movements and their relationship to theology and religion. CROSSLISTED as PHL 436/REL 436 and REL 536.
Equivalent to: PHL 436
Recommended: 6 credits of philosophy and sophomore standing.
REL 437, ADVANCED YOGA TEACHING SEMINAR I, 2 Credits
Develops upon yoga instructional methods and applies anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and teaching methodology in yoga sequencing with a focus on adaptations and misadaptations in the postural practice. Examines professional ethics for yoga teachers. Further develops personal teaching approach, verbal articulation, observation, and demonstration for teaching with application to both specific populations and diverse groups.
Prerequisite: PAC 204 with B or better
Recommended: Completion of tier one pathway with B or above or 200 RYS Yoga Teacher Training program
REL 438, ADVANCED YOGA TEACHING SEMINAR II, 2 Credits
Examines guiding meditation and contemplative inquiry, as well as professional ethics. Develops and applies personal teaching philosophy and approach. Emphasizes teacher qualities, theme integration, and marketing.
Prerequisite: REL 437 with B or better
REL 443, *WORLD VIEWS AND ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES, 3 Credits
A comparative study of world-views (secular and religious, Western and Eastern, modern and ancient) and how they affect concepts of nature, environmental values, and selected environmental issues. CROSSLISTED as PHL 443/REL 443 and PHL 543/REL 543.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 443, PHL 443H, REL 443H
Recommended: One introductory-level science course and sophomore standing.
Available via Ecampus
REL 443H, *WORLD VIEWS AND ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES, 3 Credits
A comparative study of world-views (secular and religious, Western and Eastern, modern and ancient) and how they affect concepts of nature, environmental values, and selected environmental issues. CROSSLISTED as PHL 443/REL 443 and PHL 543/REL 543.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PHL 443, PHL 443H, REL 443
Recommended: One introductory-level science course and sophomore standing.
REL 444, *BIOMEDICAL ETHICS, 4 Credits
Application of ethical principles and decision-making processes to selected problems in medicine, health care, and biotechnology. Special attention given to end-of-life choices, reproductive rights and technologies, organ transplantation, research ethics, genetic engineering, and allocating scarce resources. An interdisciplinary focus that draws on social, legal, economic, and scientific issues in ethical decisions in medicine. CROSSLISTED as PHL 444/REL 444 and REL 544/REL 544.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
REL 444H, *BIOMEDICAL ETHICS, 4 Credits
Application of ethical principles and decision-making processes to selected problems in medicine, health care, and biotechnology. Special attention given to end-of-life choices, reproductive rights and technologies, organ transplantation, research ethics, genetic engineering, and allocating scarce resources. An interdisciplinary focus that draws on social, legal, economic, and scientific issues in ethical decisions in medicine. CROSSLISTED as PHL 444/REL 444 and REL 544/REL 544.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Equivalent to: PHL 444, PHL 444H, REL 444
Available via Ecampus
REL 445, *PANDEMICS, PLAGUES, AND PHILOSOPHIES, 4 Credits
Examines the human experience of pandemics and plagues, with a focus on philosophical, theological, ethical, and existential issues communities confront in living through a pandemic. Highlights themes of personal freedom, community solidarity, and possibilities for personal and communal transformation in the wake of pandemics.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Equivalent to: PHL 445
REL 448, NATIVE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHIES, 4 Credits
Native American perspectives on ways of knowing, sources of meaning and ethics, the nature of reality, self, community, and cosmos. Includes lectures, scholarship, story-telling, poetry, theater, and music as forums for this exploration. Introduces ideas of leading Native American thinkers about the human relation to the natural world, sources of strength and wisdom, the nature of time and place and spirit, right ways of acting in communities, both civic and biotic, and the place of beauty in a well-lived life. CROSSLISTED as ES 448/PHL 448/REL 448.
Attributes: LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: ES 448, PHL 448
Available via Ecampus
REL 455, DEATH AND DYING, 3 Credits
A multidisciplinary study of cultural, philosophical, and religious perspectives on death, dying, and grieving. CROSSLISTED as PHL 455/REL 455 and PHL 555/REL 555.
Equivalent to: PHL 455
Recommended: 6 credits of philosophy or sophomore standing
REL 470, RELIGION IN THE AMERICAN WEST, 4 Credits
The history of religion in the American West. Examines four themes in the religious history of the American West: locations (the designation of particular places as special), migrations (movement in and out of the region), adaptations (changes over time, in response to changing conditions), and discrimination (recognition of difference, as well as prejudicial treatment based on difference). Engages with various primary and secondary sources, including texts, films, and photographs. CROSSLISTED as HST 470/REL 470 and HST 570/REL 570.
Equivalent to: HST 470
REL 475, *HUMAN TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT, 4 Credits
Covers analysis and critique of the philosophical and religious implications of technologies that restore or enhance human physical and cognitive capacities. Reflects on the relationships between religion, philosophy, and technology, incorporating theories of the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) and Science, Technology, and Society (STS). Analyzes examples of human enhancement, including the use of prosthetic limbs, sensory apparatuses, medical enhancement, cybernetics, virtual and augmented reality, nootropics and psychedelics, and life-extension technologies. Applies critical thinking to the complex historical, social, and ethical issues tied to these emergent technologies of human augmentation. CROSSLISTED as PHL 475/REL 475.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Equivalent to: PHL 475
REL 476, *HISTORY OF WHITE SUPREMACY & WHITE NATIONALISM IN THE US & OR, 4 Credits
Offers insight into the development of racial categories and racial discrimination in the United States and, more specifically, Oregon. Considers how white supremacy—the idea that there is a category of people who are white and that those people are intellectually, culturally, and genetically superior to other groups of people—has informed U.S. policies (such as immigration, education, and housing policies). Examines white nationalist movements that have argued for a white ethnostate. CROSSLISTED as HST 476/REL 476 and HST 576/REL 576.
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: HST 476
Available via Ecampus
REL 477, PSYCHEDELICS, SPIRITUALITY, AND HEALING, 4 Credits
Covers analysis and critique of the philosophical and spiritual implications of the use of psychoactive substances in global historical and contemporary contexts. Reflects on the larger historical role of psychoactive substances in the world’s religions and in smaller-scale spiritual movements. Investigates the contemporary global history of psychedelics, including the “first-” and “second-wave” psychedelic movements, with a special focus on the relationship between spiritual, therapeutic, and recreational applications. Analyzes the Oregon Psilocybin Initiative and its place within the larger contexts of the previous spheres of investigation. Applies critical thinking to the complex historical, social, and ethical issues tied to traditional and contemporary uses of psychoactive substances in the global context. CROSSLISTED as PHL 477/REL 477 and PHL 577/REL 577.
Equivalent to: PHL 477
Recommended: Analytical, critical thinking, and synthesis skills
REL 484, RELIGION AND LAW, 4 Credits
Investigates the relationship between religion and law in Jewish, Christian, and Muslim society, as well as modern western “secular” society, considering the question from a theoretical, historical, and contemporary case-study perspective. Looks at the religious origins of legal systems, the ways in which members of religious communities engaged with their own and others’ laws, and the ways in which modern societies have used law to separate “religion” from the state.
Equivalent to: HST 484
REL 530, HISTORY OF BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY, 4 Credits
Examination of the major philosophical schools, texts, and thinkers in Buddhist history, emphasizing its Indian origins, but looking beyond to the various Buddhist traditions throughout Asia. CROSSLISTED as PHL 430/REL 430 and PHL 530/REL 530.
Equivalent to: PHL 530
REL 531, BUDDHISM, NON-VIOLENCE, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE, 4 Credits
Investigates the philosophical grounding of Buddhist ideas about non-violence, justice and social responsibility. Looks at broad-based Buddhist social activism movements and leaders; their methods of training, issues and types of actions taken by "Socially Engaged Buddhists" living Buddhist traditions. CROSSLISTED as PHL 431/REL 431 and PHL 531/REL 531.
Equivalent to: PHL 531
REL 534, SPIRITUALITY AND ECOLOGY: GREEN YOGA, 4 Credits
An exploration of the relationship between spirituality and ecological engagement in traditional contexts and in contemporary spirituality, with a global focus on contemplative practices rooted in Indian tradition, such as yoga. CROSSLISTED as PHL 434/REL 434 and PHL 534/REL 534.
Equivalent to: PHL 534
REL 536, PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION, 3 Credits
Examination of significant philosophical issues or movements and their relationship to theology and religion.
Equivalent to: PHL 536
Recommended: 6 credits of philosophy
REL 543, WORLD VIEWS AND ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES, 3 Credits
A comparative study of world-views (secular and religious, Western and Eastern, modern and ancient) and how they affect concepts of nature, environmental values, and selected environmental issues. CROSSLISTED as PHL 443/REL 443 and PHL 543/REL 543.
Equivalent to: PHL 543
Recommended: One introductory-level science course
REL 545, PANDEMICS, PLAGUES, AND PHILOSOPHIES, 4 Credits
Examines the human experience of pandemics and plagues, with a focus on philosophical, theological, ethical, and existential issues communities confront in living through a pandemic. Highlights themes of personal freedom, community solidarity, and possibilities for personal and communal transformation in the wake of pandemics.
Equivalent to: PHL 545
REL 555, DEATH AND DYING, 3 Credits
A multidisciplinary study of cultural, philosophical, and religious perspectives on death, dying, and grieving. CROSSLISTED as PHL 455/REL 455 and PHL 555/REL 555.
Equivalent to: PHL 555
Recommended: 6 credits of philosophy
REL 570, RELIGION IN THE AMERICAN WEST, 4 Credits
The history of religion in the American West. Examines four themes in the religious history of the American West: locations (the designation of particular places as special), migrations (movement in and out of the region), adaptations (changes over time, in response to changing conditions), and discrimination (recognition of difference, as well as prejudicial treatment based on difference). Engages with various primary and secondary sources, including texts, films, and photographs. CROSSLISTED as HST 470/REL 470 and HST 570/REL 570.
Equivalent to: HST 570
REL 575, HUMAN TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT, 4 Credits
Covers analysis and critique of the philosophical and religious implications of technologies that restore or enhance human physical and cognitive capacities. Reflects on the relationships between religion, philosophy, and technology, incorporating theories of the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) and Science, Technology, and Society (STS). Analyzes examples of human enhancement, including the use of prosthetic limbs, sensory apparatuses, medical enhancement, cybernetics, virtual and augmented reality, nootropics and psychedelics, and life-extension technologies. Applies critical thinking to the complex historical, social, and ethical issues tied to these emergent technologies of human augmentation. CROSSLISTED as PHL 575/REL 575.
Equivalent to: PHL 575
Available via Ecampus
REL 576, HISTORY OF WHITE SUPREMACY & WHITE NATIONALISM IN THE US & OR, 4 Credits
Offers insight into the development of racial categories and racial discrimination in the United States and, more specifically, Oregon. Considers how white supremacy—the idea that there is a category of people who are white and that those people are intellectually, culturally, and genetically superior to other groups of people—has informed U.S. policies (such as immigration, education, and housing policies). Examines white nationalist movements that have argued for a white ethnostate. CROSSLISTED as HST 476/REL 476 and HST 576/REL 576.
Equivalent to: HST 576
REL 577, PSYCHEDELICS, SPIRITUALITY, AND HEALING, 4 Credits
Covers analysis and critique of the philosophical and spiritual implications of the use of psychoactive substances in global historical and contemporary contexts. Reflects on the larger historical role of psychoactive substances in the world’s religions and in smaller-scale spiritual movements. Investigates the contemporary global history of psychedelics, including the “first-” and “second-wave” psychedelic movements, with a special focus on the relationship between spiritual, therapeutic, and recreational applications. Analyzes the Oregon Psilocybin Initiative and its place within the larger contexts of the previous spheres of investigation. Applies critical thinking to the complex historical, social, and ethical issues tied to traditional and contemporary uses of psychoactive substances in the global context. CROSSLISTED as PHL 477/REL 477 and PHL 577/REL 577.
Equivalent to: PHL 577