ANTH 4860 - Anthropology of Religion

Anthropology of Religion explores the history, development, and role of belief in the supernatural in human societies. Students are introduced to cross-cultural, comparative perspectives concerning belief systems. A number of case studies are examined, particularly religious traditions of the Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean, the Balkans, Central Asia, Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the United States. The course investigates anthropological debates about the concepts of religion, myth, and ritual. It also explores the use of folk religion in traditional medical practices. Assignments prepare students with preliminary training and first-hand experience in ethnographic research methods. Prerequisite: ANTH 1102, or HIST 1111, or ANTH 2020, or permission of the instructor.

Hours:
3