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New and Updated Course Descriptions

PHL 108 - World Religions: Western Traditions

3 Credits

An introduction to the academic study of religion through the exploration of some Western religious traditions. This course examines the historical development, the fundamental doctrines, practices, institutions, and cultural expressions of Western religions. The course also addresses differences and similarities between Western religions, and the differences and similarities between Western and non-Western religions. The course introduces students to study of the relations between religion and politics, economics, and social life.

Learning Attributes: WR

New SUNY General Education:
SUNY - Humanities
SUNY - World History and Global Awareness

MCC General Education: MCC-CT - Critical Thinking (MCT), MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

Course Learning Outcomes
1.Distinguish among different kinds of theories of religion and different methods of studying religions.
2.Describe the origins and history of Western religions, including theological, political, economic, and social influences on change and persistence in institutions, practices, and belief.
3.Examine the extent of common and distinctive values and beliefs between Western religions and the extent of common and distinctive values and beliefs between Western and non-Western religions.
4.Examine mutual influences of religious doctrine and practice and formation of social and political practices and institutions.
5.Analyze religious and theological texts central to the history of Western religions.
6.Differentiate among conceptions of humanity, divinity, cosmos, duty, virtue, and community (i.e., culture) in various Western religions.

Course Offered Fall

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Fall Semester 2024
Spring Semester 2024
Summer Session 2024