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SOCA1030

Introduction to the Sociology of Religion

10 Units 1000 Level Course

Available in 2013

Callaghan Campus Semester 2

Previously offered in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008

Students will be introduced to the study of religion as an aspect of social structure and social change. The course will examine sociological approaches to systems of belief based on classical and post-modern theorists and define the basic concepts which underpin contemporary debates about the role of religion in society.

Objectives On successful completion of this course students will be able to demonstrate:

An understanding of key debates and sociological approaches to religion and belief.
An ability to apply key concepts to contemporary debates about the role of religion in the contemporary world.
Skills in researching, writing and debating appropriate to first year university study.
Content Definition of 'religion' from a sociological perspective:
Varieties of religions and other faith systems
Secularisation thesis
Religion and post-modernity
Religion and social structure
Religion and social change.

Theories about the relationship between religion and society:
Marx and the oppression of the proletariat
Weber and the Protestant Ethic
Durkheim and 'collective consciousness'.
Baudrillard and the hyper-real

Religion and science
Fundamentalism
Religion, gender and sexuality
New religious movements
Religion and Consumerism
Religion and Popular culture
Religion in a global world
Transition None required
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge None
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments Assessment may include essay plans, essays, short-answer assignments and/or book reviews, with a combined total word count of approximately 3,500-4,500 words
Contact Hours Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial: for 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Timetables 2013 Course Timetables for SOCA1030