Eighteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

The broad topic of teaching about religion in a global framework is likely too broad to provide a clear basis for conversation. The topic can be discussed but would require far more time than allotted for this presentation. Thus, I propose that the topic be treated with a case example, the specific course I have now taught many times – Global Violence and Human rights. The course is taught at the graduate level but can be adjusted for upper level undergraduates. The aim of the reflection in this paper is to suggest both a possible approach to teaching religion in a global context (especially the use of issue focused study) as well as the implications of moving to a global setting for teaching about religion. The specific course example can be a model reproduced in various ways. Above all, the approach that aims to integrate differing academic approaches to the topic makes the course adaptable to differing academic settings. The aim to use two different categories of violence – genocide and terrorism – suggests an approach that is both broad as well as current for students. Above all, the approach allows students to move from the focus to other types of violence and the impact on human rights using the approach of the course to investigate further specific topics and the role of religion.