Today, religion dominates much of the news. Whether it’s about our involvement in the Middle East, adding ‘God’ to the Democratic platform, or a preacher outside the Union, it seems Americans cannot get away from religion as a topic of discussion. Ultimately, do we know enough to have intelligent conversations about these religious differences, which cause much of the strife we hear about?
This is where Religious Studies comes in. It is not about theology or proving which religion is ‘true’. While it contains several components, it can be simplified to two ideas:
The first is a historical perspective: Where do these religions come from and how did they develop into their modern form?
The second is a psychological/sociological perspective: Why do these religions influence people the way they do?
Religious Studies falls under many disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology and history, and it looks at what is a fundamental part of the human story, whether we like it or not. Religion influences billions of people on a daily basis, and whether you are religious or not, you will be interacting with others who are.
The University of Wyoming offers both a major and a minor in the field. Not interested in a degree? Take a RELI class to fill a university requirement. Introduction to Religion is a great one. No room in the schedule? The Religious Studies Club meets at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays in Ross Hall, Room 14.
I’m happy to field questions as well. At the very least, I can refer you to a professor who knows more than I do.
Take a look at religious studies. The more we know, the more intelligent a conversation we can have, and the sooner we can get started on resolving some major conflicts.
