REL 305 Religion in America Today

The United States was founded on ideals which include the dual concepts of religious freedom and religious tolerance. Yet, many religious beliefs and practices in this country are misunderstood and the actual degree of diversity is underestimated. At times, tension between religious freedom and religious tolerance has been the cause of unrest – even violence. This course is designed to increase religious literacy as a means of understanding the diversity of world views, beliefs, and practices of those with whom we coexist. Content will include an overview of religion in the United States from colonial times to the present, with an emphasis on contemporary issues and current events.