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CRS864Arts2 Unitsintermediate

Sociol Theories of Religion

This course introduces students to social theories of religion, exploring key concepts such as the definition of religion, elements of religion, and the history of world religions. It examines the relationship between religion and society, socialization, secularization, and family patterns. The course also delves into various social theories of religion, including those of Durkheim, Marx, Weber, Comte, Freud, and functionalist and symbolic interactionist perspectives. It provides a comprehensive understanding of religion's role in society.

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90h
Study Time
13
Weeks
7h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Social TheoriesSociology of ReligionReligious BeliefsSecularizationReligion and Society

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Definition of Religion

2

Elements of Religion

3

History of World Religions

4

Sociology of Religion

5

Religion and Society

6

Social Theories of Religion

7

Secularization

8

Religious Beliefs

Total Topics8 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Religious Studies Scholar

Apply your skills in this growing field

Social Worker

Apply your skills in this growing field

Community Organizer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Policy Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Journalist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Religious OrganizationsNon-Profit SectorGovernment AgenciesEducational InstitutionsMedia and Journalism

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Definition of Religion

2h

Unit 1: Definition of Religion

2 study hours
  • •Read the introduction to different perspectives on defining religion.
  • •Identify the etymological connotations of the word 'religion'.
  • •Reflect on personal understanding and experiences related to religion.
Week
2

Module 1: Definition of Religion

2h

Unit 2: The elements of religion

2 study hours
  • •Identify and describe the four structural elements of religion: belief, ritual, emotions, and organization.
  • •Analyze the role of each element in sustaining religious practices.
  • •Reflect on how these elements manifest in different religions.
Week
3

Module 1: Definition of Religion

3h

Unit 3: History of world religions

3 study hours
  • •Explore the historical development of various world religions.
  • •Compare and contrast the origins, beliefs, and practices of different religions.
  • •Analyze the factors that contributed to the spread and evolution of each religion.
Week
4

Module 1: Definition of Religion

3h

Unit 4: New Religious Movements in Nigeria

3 study hours
  • •Research and analyze the emergence and characteristics of New Religious Movements in Nigeria.
  • •Discuss the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to the rise of NRMs.
  • •Evaluate the impact of NRMs on Nigerian society and culture.
Week
5

Module 1: Definition of Religion

2h

Unit 5: Methodology for the Study of Religion

2 study hours
  • •Review the different methods used in the study of religion and society.
  • •Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each method.
  • •Apply these methods to analyze specific religious phenomena.
Week
6

Module 1: Definition of Religion

2h

Unit 6: The nature of Religious Beliefs

2 study hours
  • •Examine the nature of religious beliefs and their impact on individual and collective behavior.
  • •Discuss the role of faith, dogma, and doctrine in shaping religious identity.
  • •Analyze the relationship between religious beliefs and social norms.
Week
7

Module 1: Definition of Religion

2h

Unity 7: Religion in the Society

2 study hours
  • •Analyze the various functions of religion in society, including social cohesion, social control, and social support.
  • •Discuss the role of religion in providing meaning, purpose, and emotional security.
  • •Evaluate the impact of religion on social change and stability.
Week
8

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

2h

Unit 1: Meaning of Sociology of Religion

2 study hours
  • •Define sociology of religion and its scope.
  • •Explore the relationship between religion and society.
  • •Discuss the key concepts and theories in sociology of religion.
Week
9

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

3h

Unit 2: The Concept of Society

3 study hours
  • •Examine the concept of society and its various components.
  • •Discuss the different types of societies and their characteristics.
  • •Analyze the role of social institutions in maintaining social order.
Week
10

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

2h

Unit 3: The Relationship between Religion and Society

2 study hours
  • •Analyze the complex relationship between religion and society.
  • •Discuss the ways in which religion influences social structures and processes.
  • •Evaluate the impact of social factors on religious beliefs and practices.
Week
11

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

3h

Unit 4: Socialization and Religious Indoctrination

3 study hours
  • •Explore the processes of socialization and religious indoctrination.
  • •Discuss the role of family, education, and religious institutions in shaping individual beliefs and values.
  • •Analyze the ethical implications of religious indoctrination.
Week
12

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

2h

Unit 5: Religion and Secularization

2 study hours
  • •Define secularization and its various dimensions.
  • •Discuss the factors that contribute to the process of secularization.
  • •Analyze the impact of secularization on religious institutions and practices.
Week
13

Module 2: Sociology of Religion

2h

Unit 6: The Family Pattern

2 study hours
  • •Examine the family pattern and its variations across different cultures and religions.
  • •Discuss the functions of the family and its role in society.
  • •Analyze the impact of religion on marriage, divorce, and family values.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create a detailed study schedule allocating specific time slots for each module and unit.

2

Develop concept maps linking key concepts from different social theories of religion.

3

Practice essay questions comparing and contrasting the views of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber.

4

Review case studies of religious movements and analyze them using different theoretical frameworks.

5

Focus on understanding the core arguments and criticisms of each social theory of religion.

6

Prepare summaries of key terms and concepts from each unit to aid recall during the exam.

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