In this course, we will examine the dominant theories of religion and look at the way sociologists use multiple types of empirical data –quantitative and qualitative– to study religion as a social institution. We will begin the course by focusing squarely on the debate between “old” and “new” paradigms in the sociology of religion. The next phase of the course explores the dynamics religious affiliation and disaffiliation, and the reasons for the growth and decline of specific religious groups and communities, as well as the varied factors that influence individual religious and spiritual practices. Subsequent segments of the course will address such topics as: (a) the links between religion, ethnicity, and immigration; (b) religion, gender, and family life; (c) religion, health, and well-being; (d) religion and socioeconomic stratification; and (e) religion and politics.

Christopher Ellison
Author

University of Texas, San Antonio
Institution

Public College or University
Institution Type

Resource Type

Graduate Course
Class Type

2012
Date Published

Religious Studies, Political Science, Sociology
Discipline

General Comparative Traditions
Religous Tradition

Topics